NICASA Demands Justice After Killing of Two Nigerians, Kidnapping of Another in South Africa

The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has called for urgent justice following the killing of two Nigerian nationals and the kidnapping of another in separate incidents in South Africa.

Taiwo Raji and Yemi Akinwunmi, both members of NICASA, were shot dead on April 20, 2025, in front of their shops on Church Street, Arcadia, Pretoria. The shooting, which occurred in broad daylight, was allegedly carried out by a South African citizen, identified as Kosina Titanbo.

According to Raji’s cousin, Babatunde Dosumu, the accused — also a trader — reportedly acted in retaliation over a missing phone. “The police told us the man who killed my cousin was Kosina Titanbo. He claimed his phone was stolen at the market, and due to racial prejudice against Nigerians, he pulled a gun and shot them,” Dosumu said.

Despite the gravity of the incident, the suspect was granted bail weeks later by a South African court, a decision that has sparked outrage and fear among the Nigerian community in Pretoria. NICASA President, Frank Onyekwelu, expressed concern over the court’s leniency, warning that the suspect might evade justice.

“The suspected killer has long received bail from police custody and may not be found again,” Onyekwelu stated. “The deceased persons left behind two South African wives and six children, among other relatives and family members.”

In a separate development, NICASA also reported the kidnapping of Nigerian businessman Silas Ani on April 24, 2025, in Springs, Johannesburg. Ani and several others were abducted from their residences by a man identified as Xolani Khumalo.

“Many of the victims were beaten, abused, and flogged while lying on bare floors,” Onyekwelu said. “Some were taken to isolated locations for further torture, including Mr. Silas Ani. While some victims were eventually released with severe injuries, Mr. Ani has yet to return.”

NICASA confirmed that a Nigerian law firm, Tony Okorie Attorneys, has been retained to pursue legal redress at the Johannesburg High Court. The matter is currently pending before a senior judge, with Ani’s whereabouts still unknown.

Onyekwelu called for immediate intervention from the Nigerian government, stating that both the Nigerian High Commission and the consulate in South Africa have been officially informed of the developments.

“These cases highlight growing concerns over the safety and rights of Nigerians living in South Africa,” he added.