Again, two Nigerians killed in South Africa, a month after killing five

Two more Nigerians have been killed in cold blood in Germiston, South Africa, exacerbating the pain and grief of losing five of their countrymen a month ago.

They have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of the two men, which occurred on May 1.

Nigerians, under the auspices of Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), referred to the deceased simply as Olawa and Ite in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Habib Miller, on Monday.

Prior to the deaths of Ite and Olawa, Miller said that the thugs had reportedly killed five other Nigerians in the last month, while two others are undergoing treatment for gunshot wounds.

He said the numerous killings had led to heightened fears in the Nigerian community in that city.

According to Miller, Ite’s demise occurred during a violent altercation with local residents in front of his business premises.

“It began when a group of South Africans attacked a Nigerian, seeking refuge in Ite’s automobile repair centre to evade their assault. Fellow Nigerians intervened, prompting a brief retreat by the assailants.

“However, upon Ite’s return to close his shop at the end of the business day, having escorted the main target of the altercation to the hospital due to a head injury sustained during the brawl, the thugs who had regrouped and returned to the location of the earlier altercation identified him as a participant and fatally shot him,’’ he said.

He noted that Olawa fell prey to the notorious thugs known for terrorizing Germiston shop owners with illicit levies and property seizures.

Witnesses recount that after Olawa paid one faction for his restaurant’s rent, another faction accosted him, demanding payment and accusing him of defying their orders by supporting the rival group.

“The altercation escalated into gunfire, claiming his life.

“It is important to note that the video circulating is unrelated to the incident involving Ite and Olawa. We urge our compatriots to refrain from spreading false information capable of exacerbating the situation.

“We vehemently condemn these senseless acts of violence and implore the relevant authorities to swiftly address these criminal gangs,” he said in the statement emailed to Persecondnews on Monday.

“Furthermore, we urge the South African government to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, including foreign nationals.”

He said that in light of the tragedies, the NUSA had advised Nigerians in South Africa to exercise caution and vigilance and steer clear of confrontations and precarious situations whenever possible.

He advised them to remain informed about their surroundings and seek assistance from authorities or trusted individuals if they felt threatened.

“NUSA will collaborate with the appropriate authorities to find a solution to the situation.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of Olawa and Ite. May their souls find eternal peace.’’