The Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) has expressed concern over the alleged killing of a 40-year-old Nigerian, Olatunde Olaleye, in Pretoria, South Africa. Olaleye was reportedly shot dead on September 21 while working at Spanata Bar and Grills in Mamelodi, Pretoria. NUSA President-General, Mr. Smart Nwobi, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, saying Olaleye was a husband and father of two children. His death has left his family devastated.
According to Nwobi, Olaleye was allegedly shot by a South African national following an argument over whether a drinking glass should be taken outside the bar. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of Nigerians in South Africa. Nwobi said there were also reports that the suspect allegedly returned to the premises and threatened the management, saying members of his crew would come back. The union is calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Nwobi urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, comprising the Consulate-General's Office and the High Commission in Pretoria, to intensify engagement with the South African authorities. He also urged the mission to explore all available diplomatic channels to address the issue and protect Nigerians in the country. The union is seeking justice in the matter and has expressed solidarity with Olaleye's wife, two children, and the Nigerian community.
The incident has sparked concerns about xenophobia and violence against Nigerians in South Africa. In recent years, there have been several reported cases of Nigerians being attacked or killed in South Africa. The Nigerian government has repeatedly called for South Africa to take more action to protect Nigerians living in the country. The two countries have a complex relationship, with many Nigerians living and working in South Africa.
Nwobi reiterated the union's call for justice in the matter and prayed for the repose of Olaleye's soul. He emphasized that the union cannot continue to lose Nigerians under circumstances that leave families devastated and communities traumatized. The union is seeking a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye's death.
The South African police have not released an official statement on the incident, but the Nigerian Union in South Africa is pressing for action. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for greater protection for Nigerians living in South Africa. The Nigerian government has also been urged to take a stronger stance on the issue.
The killing of Olaleye has raised concerns about the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa. The incident has also sparked a renewed call for greater cooperation between the two countries to address issues of xenophobia and violence. The Nigerian Union in South Africa will continue to push for justice in the matter and seek greater protection for Nigerians living in the country.
Key points
- The Nigerian Union in South Africa is seeking a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye's death.
- The incident has sparked concerns about xenophobia and violence against Nigerians in South Africa.
- The Nigerian government has been urged to take a stronger stance on the issue and push for greater protection for Nigerians living in South Africa.
