Reps to probe killing of Nigerian man in South Africa

The House of Representatives on Wednesday, June 5, unveiled plans to investigate the murder of 43-year-old Ebuka Nwoko and other cases of unlawful killings and torture of Nigerians living in the Diaspora. 

Ebuka, from Obosi, Anambra State, was allegedly beaten to death by police officers on May 17, 2024, in Danielskuil, Northern Cape. 

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion on urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Tochukwu Chinedu Okere, who solicited for the House intervention. 

In his lead debate, Hon. Okere observed with grave concern the recent reports of unlawful killings, torture, and inhumane treatment of Nigerian citizens living in South Africa.

“The House is informed that Mr Ebuka Nwoko, 43, well known as Jeff, was allegedly murdered while in the custody of South African security officials in Danielskuil, Northern Cape, South Africa,” he said. 

The House expresses profound disappointment and condemnation of these avoidable actions by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), which are a violation of human rights and the rule of law.

“The House is aware that section 11 of the South African Constitution guarantees the right to life and as such, upholds the dignity of human life; hence being a democratic state, it is obligated to treat all people with dignity and afford full protection of the law, regardless of nationality, colour, or creed, especially by law enforcement officers.

“The House is concerned that the recent tragic and painful death of Mr Ebuka Nwoko, a 43-year-old Nigerian allegedly murdered while in the custody of South African security officials, is yet another harrowing example of the severe mistreatment our compatriots face overseas.

“The House is aware that section 11 of the South African Constitution guarantees the right to life and as such, upholds the dignity of human life; hence being a democratic state, it is obligated to treat all people with dignity and afford full protection of the law, regardless of nationality, colour, or creed, especially by law enforcement officers.

“The House is saddened that Nigerian lives are continuously devalued and disregarded, even in nations that claim to uphold democratic values and the rule of law.”

Okere specifically lamented that “South Africa, a nation we once looked to as a beacon of hope and progress, now stands as a stark reminder of the systemic injustice and abuse our people suffer abroad.

“The House believes that we cannot continue to turn a blind eye to the plight of our citizens in the Diaspora. Their cries for help and justice can no longer go unanswered. We must take decisive action to protect the lives, rights, and welfare of all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside.

“The House emphasizes the need to engage with the relevant authorities in South Africa, including the South African Government and law enforcement agencies, to ensure that justice is served, and measures are taken to properly investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Ebuka Nwoko.

“We owe it to our citizens, both home and abroad, to take a stand against the systemic injustice and abuse they face,” Hon. Okere stressed.

After observing a minute silence in honour of the late Ebuka Nwoko, the House mandates its Committee on Diaspora to investigate his murder and other cases of unlawful killings/ torture of Nigerians living in the Diaspora and report back to the House in four weeks for further legislative action.

To this end, the House urged the Federal Government to prioritise the protection of the lives of Nigerians living abroad and leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice for our compatriots who have suffered injustice and oppression at the hands of foreign nationals.