PRETORIA, South Africa —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, Smart Nwobi, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Nwobi said Olaleye was a husband and father of two children, adding that his death had left his family and members of the Nigerian community devastated.
He said reports indicated 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 alleged assailant later returned to the premises and threatened the management, reportedly warning that members of his crew would come back.
Nwobi called for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye’s death, urging the authorities to ensure that the law takes its proper 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.
He urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, comprising the Consulate-General’s Office and the High Commission in Pretoria, to intensify engagement with South African authorities over the incident.
Nwobi also called on the mission to explore all available diplomatic channels to address the matter and strengthen efforts to protect Nigerians living and working 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 and accountability in the matter.
