The Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) has demanded an independent investigation into the death of 34-year-old Nigerian Christian Hilary Nnaemeka after an alleged attack in Johannesburg.
According to NUSA, the incident allegedly involved Xolani Khumalo and members of his Sizokthola crew. It happened at about 8:00 p.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026, around Willow and Filbert Streets, Primrose, Johannesburg.
Christian came from Enugu-Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria. He was a husband and father of a three-year-old son.
George O. Sylvester, Media and Publicity Assistant to the President General, NUSA, said the deceased death represents a wider concern about the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa.
The union called for an immediate, transparent and independent probe into what happened.
NUSA urged authorities to identify and investigate everyone connected to the incident. It said anyone found to have acted unlawfully should face the full weight of the law, regardless of position, influence or affiliation.
The union also demanded answers to key questions. It wants authorities to establish what happened to Christian, why he was attacked, who was responsible and whether the incident formed part of an authorised operation.
NUSA said it would engage South African authorities and work with the Nigerian Mission. It specifically mentioned the Consul-General’s Office and the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria as partners in pursuing the matter.
It urged the Nigerian Mission to continue engaging South African authorities. It also called for the use of available diplomatic channels to address the issue and improve the safety and protection of Nigerians in South Africa.
NUSA stressed that it supports lawful efforts to fight crime and drugs. However, it said authorities must investigate allegations through due process and that allegations of criminality should never become a licence to take a human life.
Consequently, the union said Christian’s three-year-old son has lost his father and his family cannot bring him back. However, it said authorities can still establish the truth about his death and ensure justice.
NUSA said concerns had previously emerged over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa. The union insisted that Christian’s death should mark the last such concern.
“We will not remain silent,” NUSA said.
The union demanded answers, accountability and justice for Christian Hilary Nnaemeka, his family and Nigerians living in South Africa.
