Johannesburg, Sept. 22,2026, The Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the death of a 34-year-old Nigerian, Christian Hilary Nnaemeka, in Johannesburg.
George Sylvester, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the NUSA President-General, made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Sylvester said Nnaemeka, a native of Enugu-Ezike in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, was allegedly attacked at about 8 p.m. on Monday around Willow and Filbert Streets, Primrose, Johannesburg.
He alleged that the attack involved Xolani Khumalo and members of his Sizokthola crew.
According to him, Nnaemeka was a husband and father of a three-year-old son.
“NUSA is deeply saddened by the death of Christian Hilary Nnaemeka.
“Today, NUSA speaks not only for a Nigerian who has lost his life, but for a family that has lost a husband and a father,” he said.
The union urged the South African authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all those connected with it.
It also demanded that anyone found to have acted unlawfully be prosecuted in accordance with the law, regardless of their position or affiliation.
NUSA further sought clarification on what led to the incident, why Nnaemeka was allegedly attacked and whether the incident was part of an authorised operation.
The union said it would engage relevant South African authorities and work with the Nigerian Mission, particularly the Consul-General’s Office and the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, to pursue the matter.
It urged the Nigerian Mission to intensify engagement with South African authorities and use available diplomatic channels to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians living in the country.
NUSA said it supported lawful efforts to combat crime and drug-related activities but insisted that allegations should be handled through due process.
“No allegation of criminality should become a licence to take a human life,” the union said.
It said although Nnaemeka could not be brought back, the circumstances surrounding his death must be established and justice served.
NUSA urged all relevant authorities to ensure that the matter was thoroughly investigated, saying it would continue to seek answers, accountability and justice for the deceased and his family.
