Johannesburg: The Nigerian community in South Africa has been plunged into mourning following the fatal shooting of a Nigerian national, Emeka Uzor, on Sunday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), which represents Nigerians living in South Africa, revealed in a statement that Uzor was shot around 3 p.m. at a Carltex Garage located in Windsor East, Randburg, Johannesburg. The statement, issued by NUSA President Mr. Smart Nwobi and National Publicity Secretary Mr. Akindele Olunloyo, indicated that Uzor, originally from Nkerefi in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, was targeted in a suspected assassination while inside his vehicle.
NUSA has expressed concern over what it views as a worrying pattern of violence against Nigerian nationals in South Africa. The union has called on the South African government, particularly the Minister of Police and the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, to launch a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into the incident, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
The union has also urged South African authorities to address the ongoing violence against Nigerians living in the country. Furthermore, NUSA called on the Nigerian government, through its Consul General and High Commissioner, to engage diplomatically with South African counterparts to address the issue.
NUSA highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Nigerian Mission and the community-based organization to address these challenges both diplomatically and legally. The union expressed confidence in South Africa’s justice system and hopes for the identification and prosecution of those culpable, allowing the victim’s family to find closure.
NUSA has appealed to the Nigerian community in South Africa to remain calm and law-abiding during this trying time.