The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has condemned the alleged killing of 50-year-old Nigerian citizen, Jeremiah Okoye, while in police custody in South Africa.
Okoye, originally from Eziniffite Nnewi, Anambra State, died on January 13 while being detained in Limpopo Province.
In a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday, NICASA President-General Dr. Frank Onyekwelu stated that investigations were underway to determine the circumstances of Okoye’s death.
“We urge the police authorities to adhere to the rule of law in performing their constitutional duties,” Onyekwelu said.
Okoye, who had been living in South Africa for 22 years at his residence on Magazyn Street in Polokwane, Limpopo Province, was reportedly in custody when the incident occurred.
NICASA has informed the Nigerian High Commission and Consulate in South Africa, and has contacted Okoye’s family and friends in Limpopo.
The association has called for an end to police brutality and the unjust killing of Nigerian citizens in South Africa, demanding justice for Okoye.
“Nigerian citizens in South Africa say no to police brutality and killings. We demand justice for Okoye. Our lives matter, and nationality should not be criminalized,” Onyekwelu stressed.
He also encouraged Nigerians to remain law-abiding and allow the authorities to use all available resources to investigate the incident.
Onyekwelu expressed hope that Okoye’s death would not be another statistic and called for an end to the recurring issue of Nigerians dying in police custody in South Africa.
“The death of Nigerians in South Africa, particularly under police custody, has become an ongoing concern that must be addressed. If left unchecked, these deaths could form a dangerous pattern,” he said. “May his soul rest in peace.”
