The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has condemned the death of 40-year-old Benjamin Okoli, who reportedly died in police custody.
NICASA President-General, Dr. Frank Onyekwelu, described the incident as unbearable, coming less than a month after the alleged killing of 50-year-old Jeremiah Okoye in similar circumstances on January 13.
According to Onyekwelu, Okoli, who hailed from Akpu in Orumba South, Anambra State, was stopped and searched by police officers, who later took him and his brother to their home for further inspection. Despite finding nothing incriminating, the officers allegedly tortured and brutalized them, leading to Okoli falling into a coma.
“His brother’s attempts to revive him failed while the police stood by and watched as Okoli’s life slipped away. Paramedics later pronounced him dead,” Onyekwelu said.
He noted that investigations into Okoye’s death were still ongoing when Okoli died under similar circumstances, allegedly at the hands of the same police unit.
“This is the same group of officers accused of killing Okoye. Now, two Nigerians have died in police custody in less than a month,” he stated.
NICASA has called on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to ensure the officers responsible are brought to justice. The group has also informed the Nigerian Missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg about the disturbing incidents.
“We appeal to our nationals to remain calm, law-abiding, and continue their daily activities peacefully,” Onyekwelu urged.
