NICASA condemns killing of Nigerian citizen in South Africa, demands justice
The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has strongly condemned the killing of a Nigerian national, Mr. Emeka Clement Uzor, describing the incident as a grave human rights violation that requires urgent and thorough investigation.
Uzor, an indigene of Enugu State, was reportedly shot dead on February 8, 2026, in Windsor, Randburg, Johannesburg.
The incident has sparked outrage within the Nigerian community in South Africa and renewed concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, NICASA President General, Hon. Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, described Uzor’s death as tragic and deeply disturbing.
He said preliminary reports available to the association indicate that the deceased was fatally shot by a private security operative, identified as Mr. Xolani Khumalo, alongside members of his team.
According to Onyekwelu, the circumstances surrounding the shooting raise serious questions about the use of force and the value placed on human life. He noted that NICASA views the incident as unacceptable and inconsistent with international human rights standards.
“This killing raises serious human rights concerns and represents a tragic loss not only to the family of the deceased but also to the entire Nigerian community in South Africa,” Onyekwelu said. “From the information available to us, the actions that led to Mr. Uzor’s death demand full scrutiny and accountability.”
NICASA called on South African law enforcement authorities to conduct a transparent and impartial investigation into the incident, ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice.
The association also urged relevant government agencies to take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence of such incidents involving private security personnel.
The group further appealed to the Nigerian government, through its diplomatic missions in South Africa, to closely follow the case and provide necessary consular support to the victim’s family.
Onyekwelu stressed that the association would continue to engage with South African authorities and human rights organisations to ensure that justice is served and that the rights and dignity of Nigerians living in South Africa are protected.
He added that NICASA remains committed to advocating for the safety, welfare and lawful treatment of Nigerian citizens in the diaspora, warning that failure to address such incidents could further strain relations and deepen fear within migrant communities.
Onyekwelu added, “The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa condemns this killing in the strongest terms. No individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands or to deprive another human being of life. We demand a full, transparent, and impartial investigation, and we will pursue all diplomatic and legal avenues to ensure that justice is served.”
“NICASA calls on the South African Police Service (SAPS) and relevant authorities to urgently investigate this matter and ensure accountability in line with the rule of law.”
“While condemning this act unequivocally, NICASA urges members of the Nigerian community to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding as engagements continue with the Nigerian Consulate, South African authorities, and human rights institutions to seek justice through lawful and diplomatic means,” he also pleaded.
NICASA extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr Emeka Clement Uzor and reassures the Nigerian community of its continued commitment to the protection of their rights, dignity, and safety in South Africa.
