A Nigerian man identified as Olatunde Olaleye has been shot dead in South Africa.
Olaleye, an indigene of Ikere-Ekiti in Ekiti State, was reportedly shot on September 21 while working at Spanata Bar and Grills in Mamelodi, Pretoria.
Confirming the incident, the President of the Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA), Smart Nwobi, said Olaleye was allegedly shot by a South African national following an argument over whether a drinking glass could be taken outside the bar.
Nwobi said there were also reports that the suspect later returned to the premises and allegedly threatened the management, claiming that members of his crew would return.
He called for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye’s death.
“We cannot continue to lose Nigerians under circumstances that leave families devastated and communities traumatised. We call for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Olaleye’s death and for the law to take its proper course,” Nwobi said.
Nwobi also urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, including the Consulate-General and the High Commission in Pretoria, to intensify engagement with South African authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the incident are properly investigated.
Olaleye is survived by his wife and children.
May his soul rest in peace. Amen.
