Nigerian Bishop, One Other Killed in South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — September 11, 2026: Two Nigerian nationals, including Bishop Michael Taiwo Fakunle, have been killed in separate incidents in Johannesburg, raising fresh concerns among Nigerians living in South Africa about their safety.

According to reports, Fakunle was killed at his home on September 4 after allegedly receiving a series of threats. He was reportedly shot by unidentified individuals who went to his residence.

The second victim, identified as James Uchechukwu Nwankwo, was reportedly killed on September 5. Former Nigerian Aviation Minister and ambassador-designate to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, said Nwankwo died following what he described as alleged “gruesome interrogation techniques” by members of the South African Police Service.

Fani-Kayode said the deaths have heightened concerns within the Nigerian community in South Africa. He called on the South African authorities to investigate both incidents and ensure that anyone responsible is brought to justice.

He also claimed that Fakunle and Nwankwo were the seventh and eighth Nigerians killed in South Africa in 2026, and alleged that some of the deaths involved South African security personnel. These claims have not been independently verified.

The killings have renewed wider concerns about the safety of Nigerian nationals in South Africa, where tensions involving foreign nationals and allegations of xenophobic violence have periodically strained relations between the two countries.

Fani-Kayode urged the South African government to take stronger measures to protect Nigerians and other African nationals living in the country.

Authorities are expected to face increasing pressure to clarify the circumstances surrounding both deaths and establish whether the incidents are connected.

The circumstances surrounding the two deaths remain under investigation, and allegations against any individuals or authorities have yet to be established in court.