The death of a Nigerian national, Ekpenyong Andrew, in Pretoria, South Africa, has sparked widespread outrage and grief among Nigerians both at home and abroad, with calls mounting for a full investigation.
Andrew, a motor mechanic and father of five, reportedly died shortly after being arrested by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in the Booysens area.
According to the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), the incident has left the victim’s family and the wider Nigerian community deeply shaken.
In a statement signed by NUSA President Smart Nwobi and spokesperson Akindele Olunloyo, the organisation described the circumstances surrounding the death as troubling and demanded urgent action.
The union said Andrew was taken into custody on April 19 while returning home from work, following a police search of his residence that reportedly yielded no illegal substances.
His partner, Kuma Kaku, was said to have confirmed that officers visited their home earlier that day but found nothing incriminating.
However, Andrew’s body was discovered the next day at the Pretoria Central Morgue under unclear circumstances.
Authorities have since opened a murder investigation at Hercules Police Station in Pretoria, with a designated investigating officer assigned to the case.
NUSA has called for a transparent inquiry, including the release of the autopsy report and full disclosure of the cause of death.
The organisation also urged the immediate suspension of the officers allegedly involved, pending the outcome of investigations.
In addition, it appealed to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to conduct an impartial probe to ensure accountability.
The group described the incident as part of a worrying trend of alleged harassment and abuse involving Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
It confirmed that the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has been notified and that efforts are ongoing to engage relevant authorities.
While urging calm among Nigerians in the country, NUSA reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for the deceased and providing support to his family
