By: Bayero Ade
The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has strongly condemned the death of a 40-year-old Nigerian, Benjamin Okoli, who lost his life while in police custody.
According to Allnaijadiaspora, Okoli’s passing comes just weeks after NICASA raised concerns over the alleged killing of another Nigerian, 50-year-old Jeremiah Okoye, who died in similar circumstances on January 13.
NICASA’s President-General, Dr. Frank Onyekwelu, described the recurring deaths of Nigerians in South African police custody as deeply troubling.
The deceased, who hailed from Akpu in the Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, is survived by his wife and child.
Providing details of the incident, Dr. Onyekwelu explained, “Okoli was stopped and searched by police officers before being taken to his home along with his brother for further checks. Despite not finding anything incriminating, the officers subjected them to severe torture and beatings. Okoli could not endure the assault and eventually collapsed into a coma. His brother tried to revive him, but his efforts were in vain while the officers reportedly stood by and did nothing. Paramedics later arrived and confirmed his death.”
He expressed concern that while investigations into Mr. Okoye’s death were still ongoing, Okoli had suffered a similar fate, allegedly at the hands of the same police unit.
“The same group of officers accused in Okoye’s case is now linked to Okoli’s death. In less than a month, two Nigerians have died under questionable circumstances in police custody,” he said.
Dr. Onyekwelu revealed that NICASA leaders in Limpopo are struggling to come to terms with what appears to be a disturbing pattern of targeted brutality against Nigerians in the region.
He urged the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to ensure a thorough investigation and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
NICASA has since informed the Nigerian Missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg about the alarming situation, calling for diplomatic intervention to prevent further loss of Nigerian lives.
Dr. Onyekwelu also appealed to Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm, abide by the law, and continue their daily activities peacefully while the authorities work to address the situation.
Leave a Reply