Collins Nweke, the Diaspora thought leader and Chair Emeritus Nigerians in Diaspora – Europe, has called for a transparent investigation of the circumstances surrounding the brutal killing in Johannesburg, South Africa of Mr Emeka Uzor, a Nigerian.
Nweke made the call in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday, while reacting to the murder of Uzor, an indigene of Enugu State on Feb. 8, 2026.
The killing had sparked several controversies by compatriots from across world, condemning the act “extra-judicial killing” amidst agreement reached between the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to set up early warning system over attacks and to stop xenophobic attacks.
Nweke said, “We call upon the South African Police Service and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to conduct a swift, transparent, and impartial investigation.
“Justice must be seen to be done, regardless of the political or professional affiliation of the perpetrators.
“The protection of Nigerian lives abroad is a sovereign obligation. I urge Nigerian Government to immediately fill the strategic vacuum by appointing a substantive Ambassador to South Africa. Our presence must be felt through proactive deterrence, not just reactive condolences.
“For years, both nations have discussed early warning systems to prevent such tragedies. The continued blood on the streets of Johannesburg suggests these protocols remain on paper while lives are lost in reality.
“It is time to move from dialogue to implementation.”
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He described Uzor’s killing as not merely a singular act of violence, saying it is a disturbing symptom of a recurring pattern of extrajudicial force and targeted aggression against Nigerians in South Africa.
This, according to him, the circumstances surrounding Uzor’s death, allegedly involving private security actors and the excessive use of lethal force; demand more than just condemnation, but accountability and systemic reform.
He further urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm and law-abiding and avoid lawlessness.
“Our strength lies in our unity and our demand for the rule of law. We will not allow the narrative of criminality to be used as a blanket excuse to devalue Nigerian lives.
“The Africa We Want cannot be built on a foundation of xenophobia or the casual disregard for the lives of fellow Africans.
“If we are to achieve true continental integration, the safety of the migrant must be as sacred as the safety of the host,” he said.
He expressed condolences go to the family of Uzor and the people of Nkerefi, Enugu State, reiterating: “we stand with you and will not be silent until justice is served,” he added.
NAN
