Outrage as Another Nigerian Man Dies in South African Police Custody

Nigerians express outrage after another citizen dies in South African police custody, raising fresh concerns over alleged brutality and xenophobia.

The Nigerian community in South Africa is deeply affected by the death of 40-year-old Benjamin Okoli, who passed away while in police custody. This tragedy comes less than a month after the contentious death of another Nigerian, Jeremiah Okoye.

The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has issued a strong condemnation of Okoli’s death, characterizing it as part of a troubling trend involving Nigerians and local law enforcement. NICASA President-General Dr. Frank Onyekwelu conveyed his serious concerns about these recurring incidents during a phone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria.

Onyekwelu stated that the Nigerian community in South Africa is grieving over another death occurring while in police custody.

Okoli, a native of Akpu in Orumba South, Anambra State, leaves behind his wife and child. NICASA reported that police officers stopped and searched him before escorting him to his home with his brother for additional examination. Although no incriminating evidence was found, the officers allegedly assaulted both men.

“Despite discovering nothing, the officers tortured, beat, and brutalized them. Okoli couldn’t endure the assault and fell into a coma,” Onyekwelu disclosed.

Attempts by Okoli’s brother to revive him were reportedly unsuccessful as the officers watched. Paramedics arrived later and declared him dead at the scene.

Heightening the concern, Onyekwelu pointed out that Okoli’s death took place while investigations were still underway regarding 50-year-old Jeremiah Okoye, who similarly passed away in police custody on January 13.

“The same group of officers accused of killing Okoye is now implicated again, as two Nigerians have died in police custody within the past month,” he remarked.

Leaders of NICASA in Limpopo Province are dealing with a concerning pattern of police brutality that seems to disproportionately impact Nigerians. The association has urged the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to conduct a comprehensive investigation and ensure accountability for the officers involved.

Onyekwelu urged the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to ensure that the officers responsible for these horrific deaths are held accountable.

NICASA has informed the Nigerian diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg, requesting their intervention to prevent further incidents. At the same time, the organization is urging calm within the Nigerian community.

“We urge our citizens to stay calm, follow the law, and keep going about their daily activities in a peaceful manner,” advised Onyekwelu.