The House of Representatives has decided to investigate the killing of Mr. Ebuka Nwoko in South Africa, along with other cases of unlawful killings and torture of Nigerians living abroad. The decision came after Hon. Tochukwu Orere introduced a motion during Wednesday’s plenary session.
Orere highlighted recent reports of Nigerian citizens facing unlawful killings, torture, and inhumane treatment in South Africa. He specifically mentioned the case of Nwoko, also known as Jeff, who was allegedly murdered while in the custody of South African security officials in Danielskuil, Northern Cape.
The lawmaker expressed disappointment and condemnation of these actions by members of the South African Police Service, emphasizing that they violate human rights and the rule of law. He cited Section 11 of the South African Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and dignity, and urged that all people, regardless of nationality, be treated with dignity and afforded full protection of the law.
Orere voiced concern that Nwoko’s death was another tragic example of the mistreatment faced by Nigerians abroad.
He added: “Saddened that Nigerian lives are continuously devalued and disregarded, even in nations that claim to uphold democratic values and the rule of law. South Africa, a nation we once looked to as a beacon of hope and progress, now stands as a stark reminder of the systemic injustice and abuse our people suffer abroad.
“Believes that we cannot continue to turn a blind eye to the plight of our citizens in the Diaspora. Their cries for help and justice can no longer go unanswered. We must take decisive action to protect the lives, rights, and welfare of all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside.”
Orere stressed the need to engage with the relevant authorities in South Africa, including the South African government and law enforcement agencies, to ensure that justice is served, and measures are taken to properly investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Nwoko.
He said the government owes it to her citizens, both home and abroad, to take a stand against the systemic injustice and abuse they face.
The House called on the federal government to prioritise the protection of the lives of Nigerians living abroad and leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice for Nigerians who have suffered injustice and oppression in the hands of foreign nationals.
