By Peter Omopo
The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has condemned the killing of a Nigerian national, Emeka Clement Uzor, describing the incident as a grave violation of human rights and calling for a full, transparent and impartial investigation.
Uzor, an indigene of Enugu State, was reportedly shot dead on February 8, 2026, in Windsor, Randburg, Johannesburg. The incident has triggered outrage within the Nigerian community in South Africa and renewed concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, NICASA President General, Hon. Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, described the killing as tragic and deeply disturbing. He said preliminary information available to the association indicates that Uzor was fatally shot by a private security operative, identified as Xolani Khumalo, alongside members of his team.
Onyekwelu said the circumstances surrounding the incident raise serious human rights concerns and constitute a significant loss to both the victim’s family and the wider Nigerian community in South Africa.
He stressed that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands or unlawfully deprive another person of life, insisting that those responsible must be held accountable.
NICASA called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other relevant authorities to carry out a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served in accordance with the rule of law. The association also urged authorities to take proactive steps to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents, particularly those involving private security personnel.
The NICASA president further appealed to the Nigerian government and its diplomatic missions in South Africa to closely monitor the case and provide necessary consular support to the victim’s family.
He urged members of the Nigerian community in South Africa to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding as engagements continue with the Nigerian Consulate, South African authorities and human rights institutions through lawful and diplomatic channels.
NICASA extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights, safety and welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa, pledging continued collaboration with relevant authorities and human rights bodies to ensure justice and accountability.
