By Opeyemi Adelakun
The Federal Government has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the death of a Nigerian citizen, Ibeh Chika Simon, who was killed during a South African Police Service (SAPS) operation in Bellville, Cape Town.
The demand was made through the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, which described the circumstances surrounding the July 23 operation as disturbing and raised concerns over what it called the excessive use of force by security personnel.
The Nigerian mission also disclosed that another citizen, Egwabor Patrick Chuks, sustained serious gunshot injuries during the operation and is currently receiving medical treatment.
In a statement dated July 25, the Consulate condemned the incident, saying, “The Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Johannesburg strongly condemns the death of Nigerian national Ibeh Chika Simon, under questionable circumstances, during a South African Police Service operation on 23rd July 2026 in Bellville, Cape Town.”
It added, “We are deeply appalled by reports of the egregious police tactics that led to his death, as well as the shooting of another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick Chuks, who remains under treatment with severe injuries.”
The mission warned that the latest incident reflects what it described as a worrying pattern of unresolved deaths involving foreign nationals in South Africa.
According to the statement, “Amid rising Afrophobic sentiment, such actions reveal a troubling disregard for the fundamental rights to life, dignity and due process guaranteed by South African law to all human beings.”
Calling for justice, the Consulate insisted that South African authorities must conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry into the operation.
“We demand an immediate, transparent, and unsparing investigation by South African authorities. Perpetrators must be held accountable,” the statement said.
While reiterating that Nigerians living in South Africa are expected to obey the country’s laws, the mission stressed that allegations of criminal conduct should never justify unlawful killings.
“While we consistently insist that all Nigerians respect the laws of South Africa, no alleged offence justifies execution-style enforcement or unacceptable operational techniques. Suspects are entitled to due process in a court of law; no authority should be above it,” it stated.
The Consulate extended condolences to Simon’s family, wished Chuks a speedy recovery, and urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain peaceful while diplomatic and legal efforts continue.
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