The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a Nigerian national in Johannesburg, calling for accountability and a transparent investigation into the incident. The organisation described the killing as “brutal” and “assassination-style,” expressing concern over what it believes may reflect a broader pattern of violence against Nigerian nationals living in South Africa.
The victim, identified as Emeka Clement Uzor, was shot multiple times on Sunday afternoon while seated inside his vehicle at a garage in Windsor East, Randburg. According to a statement released by NUSA on Monday, Uzor was attacked in broad daylight, in circumstances that have shocked both the Nigerian community and local residents.
Gauteng police have confirmed that a murder case has been registered. Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
“A murder case has been opened and investigations are ongoing,” Sibeko said. She added that police are working to establish the events leading up to the shooting and to determine the roles of those who were present at the scene.
Police further confirmed that the shooting occurred during the filming of an anti-drug operation linked to the television programme Sizok’Thola. The show, which focuses on confronting alleged drug dealers and criminal activity within communities, was reportedly filming in the area at the time of the incident. Authorities have not yet clarified the exact sequence of events that led to Uzor being shot.
Following the shooting, members of the community gathered at the scene, prompting the deployment of public order police to monitor the situation and prevent further unrest.
“This tragic incident raises serious questions,” NUSA said in its statement, urging the South African Police Service (SAPS) to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. The organisation emphasised that justice must be served and that anyone found responsible should be held fully accountable under the law.
The union also highlighted what it described as growing fears within the Nigerian community about their safety. NUSA suggested that the killing may form part of a broader pattern of hostility and violence directed at Nigerian nationals in the country, though police have not indicated any motive at this stage.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to gather witness statements, review available footage, and analyse forensic evidence to determine exactly what happened. No arrests have been announced.
The shooting has sparked renewed debate around community safety, media involvement in anti-crime operations, and the protection of foreign nationals living in South Africa. For now, Uzor’s family and community await answers, as calls intensify for transparency, justice, and accountability in the wake of his death.