The Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) has decried 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 on Thursday.
Nwobi said Olaleye was a husband and father of two children, adding that his death had left his family devastated.
He said the union was concerned by reports that Olaleye was allegedly shot by a South African national following an argument over whether a drinking glass should be taken outside the bar.
According to him, there were also reports that the suspect allegedly returned to the premises and threatened the management, saying members of his crew would return.
Nwobi called for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye’s death.
“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.
He urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, comprising the Consulate-General and the High Commission in Pretoria, to intensify engagement with the South African authorities over the incident.
Nwobi also urged the mission to explore all available diplomatic channels to address the matter and strengthen efforts to protect Nigerians in the country.
He expressed NUSA’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.
