The Nigerian community in South Africa has been thrown into mourning following the alleged killing of a 58-year-old Nigerian cleric, Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle, in Johannesburg.
Fakunle, an indigene of Iye in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, was allegedly shot dead at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, on Friday, September 4, 2026.
The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) disclosed the incident on Thursday, with its National President, Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, describing the circumstances surrounding the cleric’s death as devastating to his family, friends and members of the Nigerian community.
According to Onyekwelu, two suspects allegedly gained entry into Fakunle’s residence and opened fire, reportedly shooting him more than seven times.
He condemned the incident as a “horrific and senseless act of violence,” expressing concern over what he described as the continued loss of Nigerian lives to violent crime in South Africa.
“This was not merely an ordinary loss of life; it was a horrific and senseless act of violence that has robbed a family of a loved one and the Nigerian community of another precious life,” Onyekwelu said.
NICASA said the incident had been reported to the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, while a murder case was opened at the Jeppe Police Station.
The association called on the South African Police Service and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Onyekwelu urged investigators to identify and apprehend everyone involved in the alleged killing and ensure that those responsible are prosecuted.
“We demand a thorough and credible investigation that will establish exactly what happened, identify all those responsible, apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that they are brought before the courts to face the full might of the law,” he said.
The association also appealed to Nigerian diplomatic authorities in South Africa to maintain contact with the relevant South African agencies and closely monitor the investigation.
NICASA said such engagement would be necessary to ensure that developments in the case are properly followed and that justice is pursued for Fakunle and his family.
The alleged killing adds to concerns within the Nigerian community in South Africa over the safety of Nigerians living and working in the country.
NICASA said it remained committed to supporting Fakunle’s family and working with Nigerian diplomatic representatives and South African authorities as investigations into the circumstances of his death continue.
