The Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) has condemned the alleged killing of a 40-year-old Nigerian, Olatunde Olaleye, in Pretoria, South Africa.
Olaleye, an indigene of Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, 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 issued on Thursday.
Nwobi said Olaleye was a husband and father of two children, adding that his death had left his family devastated.
According to him, the union was concerned by reports that Olaleye was allegedly shot by a South African national following an argument over whether a drinking glass could be taken outside the bar.
Nwobi said there were also reports that the suspect allegedly returned to the premises and threatened the management, warning that members of his crew would return.
He called for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye’s death, urging the relevant authorities to ensure that the law takes its course.
“We cannot continue to lose Nigerians under circumstances that leave families devastated and communities traumatised.
“We call for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye’s death and for the law to take its proper course,” he said.
Nwobi urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, comprising the Consulate-General and the High Commission in Pretoria, to intensify engagement with South African authorities over the incident.
He also called on the mission to explore all available diplomatic channels to address the matter and strengthen measures to protect Nigerians living and working in the country.
The NUSA president expressed the union’s solidarity with Olaleye’s wife, two children and the wider Nigerian community, while praying for the repose of his soul.
He reiterated the union’s call for justice in the matter.
