- Consulate alleges torture after drug search yields no contraband, urges authorities to ensure justice
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has demanded a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the death of a Nigerian national, Odueze Chimezie Odueze, who allegedly died following torture by South African police officers in Cape Town.
The consulate, in a statement dated October 13, 2026, said Odueze died on October 9 in the Parklands area of Cape Town, describing the incident as distressing to his family and the Nigerian community in South Africa.
According to the statement issued by the Consul General, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the deceased was reportedly arrested at a shopping centre on suspicion of drug possession before being taken to his residence for a search.
The mission alleged that no drugs were found during the search but claimed that Odueze was nevertheless subjected to torture, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death and the conduct of the officers involved.
The consulate called on the relevant South African authorities to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify anyone responsible for wrongdoing and ensure that those found culpable are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
It expressed grave concern over what it described as a recurring pattern of alleged extrajudicial killings involving Nigerian nationals in South Africa, warning that such incidents raised serious questions about the safety, protection and rights of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country.
The mission also cited concerns over reported xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks and threats against foreign nationals, urging South African authorities to ensure that allegations of abuse by law enforcement personnel receive transparent and impartial scrutiny.
Emphasising the importance of due process, the consulate said allegations of criminal conduct must be addressed through established legal procedures rather than through unlawful treatment or punishment.
“No matter what the allegations may be, there are processes and steps to justice,” the statement said, stressing that suspects were entitled to a fair hearing before a court of law.
The mission maintained that the circumstances of Odueze’s death required a thorough investigation to establish accountability and uphold the rule of law.
It further appealed to Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant amid reports of attacks and threats against foreign nationals.
The consulate extended its condolences to Odueze’s family and assured the Nigerian community that it would continue to pursue the protection, welfare and fair treatment of Nigerian citizens in South Africa.
Reaffirming its commitment to seeking justice for the deceased, the mission said it would continue to press for accountability, declaring that “Nigerian and all lives matter.”
The consulate’s demand places renewed attention on the protection of foreign nationals, police accountability and the need for credible investigations into allegations of custodial abuse. The circumstances surrounding Odueze’s death and the allegations against the officers involved require verification by the relevant South African authorities.
