The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has launched an investigation into the death of Jeremiah Okoye, a 50-year-old Nigerian who reportedly died in police custody in Limpopo, South Africa, on January 13, 2025.
NIDCOM spokesperson Abdulrahman Balogun confirmed the commission’s involvement on Saturday, following reports of Okoye’s death a day earlier. Okoye, a native of Eziniffite Nnewi in Anambra State, had lived in South Africa for over two decades at 71 Magazyn Street, Polokwane, Limpopo Province.
The President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), Frank Onyekwelu, condemned the incident and expressed concern over ongoing cases of police brutality targeting Nigerians in the country. In a statement, Onyekwelu urged South African authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and uphold the rule of law.
He stated, “We hope this tragic incident will not become another statistic. Nigerians in South Africa deserve better protection from law enforcement agencies. These recurring deaths, especially in police custody, pose a serious threat if left unchecked.”
Onyekwelu also called on Nigerians in South Africa to remain law-abiding and cooperate with authorities during the investigation.
NIDCOM has assured Nigerians of its commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding Okoye’s death while seeking justice for the deceased.
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