By Ameh Gabriel
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has condemned in strong terms the gruesome killing of two Nigerian nationals by masked gunmen in Durban, South Africa.
The victims, identified simply as Austin and Ayo, were reportedly shot at close range inside an office complex, sparking outrage within the Nigerian community abroad.
Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the killings as senseless, barbaric, and totally unacceptable, urging South African authorities to launch a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
In a statement issued by NiDCOM spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa said the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is already following up on the tragic incident.
“This latest unprovoked killing is condemnable and barbaric. We urge the South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure those responsible are brought to book,” she stated.
She also expressed deep concern over the failure to implement the early warning mechanisms previously agreed upon by Nigeria and South Africa to prevent such attacks.
“The early warning mechanism put in place by both countries to prevent incidents like this has yet to be implemented by South Africa,” she added.
While extending condolences to the families of the deceased, the NiDCOM boss appealed to members of the Nigerian community in South Africa to remain calm and law-abiding.
“We understand the pain and anger in the community, but we must not take the law into our own hands. Let the authorities complete their investigation,” she said.
Dabiri-Erewa noted that the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa has officially demanded a fair and transparent investigation into the killings.
