The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian traders in Durban, South Africa, describing the act as “intolerable and senseless.” NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, called for the culprits to be brought to justice, expressing deep concern over the incident.
The victims, identified as Austin and Ayo, were reportedly shot dead at close range by masked gunmen who stormed Austin’s office on 9 July 2025. Unconfirmed reports suggest the attack occurred around 8 PM, with both men dying instantly. The motive remains unclear, though some speculate it may be linked to a business dispute.
In a statement by NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa noted that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is actively investigating the matter. She highlighted that an early warning mechanism agreed upon by Nigeria and South Africa to prevent such incidents has not been implemented by the South African authorities.
Amid rising tensions within the Nigerian community in South Africa, Dabiri-Erewa urged calm and restraint, appealing to Nigerians not to take the law into their own hands. She assured the bereaved families of NiDCOM’s commitment to ensuring justice is served and conveyed condolences on behalf of the commission.
The Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa has demanded a thorough and fair investigation by South African police. Authorities have yet to apprehend the suspects, and the investigation remains ongoing.
This incident follows a series of violent attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, raising concerns about the safety of the Nigerian diaspora. In April 2025, two other Nigerians, Taiwo Raji and Yemi Akinwunmi, were killed in Pretoria, with the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) reporting that justice has not been served in that case.
