Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

In a revealing interview with Biodun Busari, Frank Onyewekelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, sheds light on the challenges facing Nigerians in the country, from violent xenophobic attacks to systemic injustices. The recent killing of Julius Chukwunta, a Nigerian national, has reignited calls for diplomatic intervention and justice.

The Death of Julius Chukwunta

The tragic death of Julius Chukwunta unfolded in Midrand, Johannesburg, on December 7, 2024. According to Onyewekelu, Chukwunta was returning home with his South African partner, Miss Lumka, when an altercation occurred. After attempting to resolve a parking dispute with four individuals, Chukwunta was brutally attacked, sustaining fatal injuries.

“They inflicted heavy injuries on him by hitting a brick on his head, which led to a massive loss of blood,” Onyewekelu recounted. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on December 10.

Legal Actions and Concerns Over Justice

Chukwunta’s partner reported the incident to the Midrand Police, leading to the arrest of the four suspects. However, Onyewekelu expressed disappointment in the judicial process after three of the suspects were granted bail for 10,000 rand each.

“The prosecutor had the right to oppose bail, especially when there is a risk of the suspects fleeing the country. Three of the attackers were Zimbabweans with South African residency, making them flight risks,” Onyewekelu explained.

The fourth suspect, yet to appoint a legal representative, is expected to apply for bail in the next hearing, scheduled for February 2025.

A Pattern of Violence and Neglect

Chukwunta’s death is not an isolated incident. Between November 2023 and December 2024, Onyewekelu reported 15 to 20 similar cases of Nigerians dying under questionable circumstances in South Africa.

“Many Nigerians have died in police custody or from brutal attacks, with little to no justice served,” he said. He cited incidents where Nigerians died during police raids or while in detention, often without explanations or follow-ups.

The Role of the Nigerian Government

Onyewekelu emphasized the need for stronger intervention from Nigerian authorities, urging the government to address these recurring issues diplomatically and publicly.

“We need more steps, such as media briefings, to make South Africans understand that Nigerian lives matter,” he stated. He also called for increased collaboration between the Nigerian consulate and South African authorities to ensure justice and prevent further incidents.

Debunking Stereotypes About Nigerians

Onyewekelu addressed the common misconception that Nigerians are taking jobs or resources from South Africans.

“Nigerians in South Africa are largely self-employed, running businesses and even employing South Africans,” he said. He also highlighted that accusations of Nigerians ‘stealing’ jobs are unfounded and often perpetuated by individuals unwilling to pursue legitimate work.

On relationships, he noted, “When love happens, it happens. Nigerian men are caring, and that’s why many South African women choose them.”

Efforts to Foster Safety and Awareness

The Nigerian Citizens Association organizes workshops, seminars, and town hall meetings to educate Nigerians on legal and cultural expectations in South Africa.

“We teach our people about the rule of law, documentation, and how to live legitimately. We want them to stay on the right side of the law,” Onyewekelu said.

The association also works closely with Nigerian cultural groups to disseminate information, ensuring unity and shared responsibility within the diaspora community.

A Plea for Justice and Peace

As the Nigerian community in South Africa continues to navigate a challenging environment, Onyewekelu’s message is clear: justice and fairness must prevail. He hopes for stronger diplomatic ties, increased awareness, and a commitment to protecting lives and fostering peace between Nigerians and South Africans.

“We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fairness and the right to live safely and thrive in a foreign land,” he concluded.

PUBLIC NOTICE

MISUSE OF THE NAME AND OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE

The Nigeria Police Force has observed with concern the persistent unprofessional conduct of a minority of officers, which tarnishes the reputation and high standards of the Force. Despite numerous warnings and disciplinary measures, some officers continue to engage in disgraceful practices that erode public trust.

Even more disturbing is the fraudulent use of the name and office of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to carry out illegal activities. These perpetrators aim to intimidate their victims by falsely implying the IGP’s approval of their actions, discouraging the victims from reporting such incidents to higher authorities.

The Nigeria Police Force urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any misconduct by police officers to their superiors, the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) in their respective states, or the Commissioner of Police. Contact details for the CRU in all states have been previously published.

We also advise caution when dealing with anyone claiming connections with the IGP or other senior officers for undue influence or personal gain. In such cases, please report immediately through the following contacts:

DCP Akin Fakorede (Head, IGP Monitoring Unit, Force Headquarters, Abuja): 08184077076
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi (Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja): 08037168147
CSP Taiwo Oyewale (Head, IGP Special Investigation Unit, Force Headquarters, Abuja): 08069318238
SP Sherriff Lawal (ADC to the IGP): 08094712605
The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. We count on the public’s cooperation to report any suspicious or unethical behavior, ensuring that justice and fairness are maintained at all times.

ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA
28th December, 2024

Asattahir International Foundation Presents Recommendations On Fire Disaster

Sahara Weekly Reports The foundation’s findings and recommendations aim to address the growing frequency of fire incidents in the state and ensure their transition into practical, impactful actions.

In his opening remarks, AIF’s executive secretary, Prof Yahaya Tanko Baba, emphasized the urgency of addressing Sokoto’s increasing fire outbreaks.

Collaboration among stakeholders is pivotal to implementing these recommendations and safeguarding lives and properties,” he said, reiterating AIF’s commitment to public safety and effective disaster management.

ASATTAHIR International Foundation (AIF) has conducted a stakeholder engagement to implement its research recommendations on fire disaster preparedness and response in Sokoto State.

The forum brought together representatives from government agencies, emergency response teams, and community leaders to address the challenges of fire outbreaks and advocate for proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.

The engagement, moderated by Dr Garba Ibrahim, head of the Access and Safety Department at AIF, followed AIF’s extensive nine-month research on fire disasters in Sokoto.