The Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) has demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the death of a 34-year-old Nigerian, Christian Hilary Nnaemeka, in Johannesburg.
NUSA made the demand following reports that Nnaemeka died after an alleged attack involving Xolani Khumalo and members of his Sizokthola crew.
The union, in a statement signed by George O. Sylvester, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to its President-General, said the incident allegedly occurred at about 8 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 21, around Willow and Filbert Streets, Primrose, Johannesburg.
NUSA said the circumstances surrounding Nnaemeka’s death required an independent investigation to establish exactly what transpired and determine those responsible.
The union said every person connected to the incident must be identified and properly investigated, stressing that anyone found to have acted unlawfully should face the full weight of the law, irrespective of position, influence or affiliation.
It also sought clarification on whether the reported attack was connected to an authorised operation and demanded answers on why Nnaemeka was allegedly attacked and who was responsible.
According to the union, Nnaemeka hailed from Enugu-Ezike in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State and was married with a three-year-old son.
NUSA said the death had left a young family without a father, stressing that while Nnaemeka could not be brought back, uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability remained important to his family and the wider Nigerian community.
It 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 justice.
The union also urged the Nigerian Mission to sustain engagement with South African authorities and deploy available diplomatic channels to strengthen the safety and protection of Nigerians living in the country.
NUSA acknowledged the importance of lawful efforts to combat crime and drug-related activities but insisted that such efforts must be conducted within the bounds of due process.
“No allegation of criminality should become a licence to take a human life,” the union said.
It further called for clarity on the circumstances leading to Nnaemeka’s death and the steps being taken by the relevant authorities to establish accountability.
READ ALSO: Human Rights Advocates Demand Peaceful, Intimidation-Free 2027 Elections
CARSPO 2026: Disu Hails Ex-IGPs’ Experience Ahead 2027 Elections
NUSA said it would continue to pursue answers and monitor developments surrounding the case.
“We demand answers. We demand accountability. We demand justice. For Christian Hilary Nnaemeka. For his family. And for every Nigerian living in South Africa,” the union said.
About The Author
