*Condemns action of South African Police
By our correspondent
The House of Representatives, second chamber of Nigeria’s bi-cameral legislature, Wednesday, called for a thorough investigation into the death of Ebuka Nwoko, a 43-year-old Nigerian allegedly murdered while in the custody of South African security officials in Danielskuil, Northern Cape, South Africa.
Hon. Tochukwu Chinedu Orere,Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora and Member representing Owerri Municipal, Owerrt West, and Owerri North Federal Constituency, raised the motion, expressing grave concern over the recent reports of unlawful killings, torture, and inhumane treatment of Nigerian citizens living in South Africa.
The House noted that the South African Constitution guarantees the right to life and dignity, and therefore, expects the country to treat all individuals with dignity and afford full protection of the law, regardless of nationality, color, or creed.
The lawmakers condemned the actions of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and urged the Federal Government to prioritize the protection of Nigerians living abroad.
They also mandated the House Committee on Diaspora to investigate the murder of Mr. Ebuka Nwoko and other cases of unlawful killings/torture of Nigerians living in the diaspora, and report back to the House in four weeks for further legislative action.
The House observed a minute of silence in honor of the deceased and resolved to take decisive action to protect the lives, rights, and welfare of all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside.
Presenting the motion, the lawmaker said that Ebuka Nwoko, 43, who was well known as Jeff, was allegedly murdered while in the custody of South African security officials in Danielskuil, Northern Cape, South Africa.
Hon Orere’s motion expressed profound disappointment and condemnation of these avoidable actions by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), which are a violation of human rights and the rule of law.
He motion said inter alia: “Aware that section 11 of the South African Constitution guarantees the right to life and as such, upholds the dignity of human lite; hence being a democratic state, it is obligated to treat all people with dignity and afford full protection of the law, regardless of nationality, color, or creed, especially by law enforcement Officers.
“Concerned that the recent tragic and painful death of Mr. Ebuka Nwoko, a 43vear-Old Nigerian allegedly murdered while in the custody of South African security officials, is yet another harrowing example of the severe mistreatment our compatriots face overseas.
“Saddened that Nigerian lives are continuously devalued and disregarded, even in nations that claim to uphold democratic values and the rule of law. South Africa, a nation we once looked to as a beacon of hope and progress, now stands as a stark reminder of the systemic injustice and abuse our people suffer abroad.
“Believes that we cannot continue to turn a blind eye to the plight of our citizens in the Diaspora. Their cries for help and justice can no longer go unanswered. We must take decisive action to protect the lives, rights, and welfare of all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside.
“Emphasizes the need to engage with the relevant authorities in South Africa, including the South African Government and law enforcement agencies, to ensure that justice is served, and measures are taken to properly investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Ebuka Nwoko. We owe it to our citizens, both home and abroad, to take a stand against the systemic injustice and abuse they face,” he said.
