The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has called for justice following the killing of two of its members, Taiwo Raji and Yemi Akinwunmi, who were shot dead by a South African national in Pretoria.
The victims were reportedly gunned down in front of their business premises on Church Street, Arcadia, on April 20, 2025.
In a statement issued by NICASA President, Frank Onyekwelu, and made available on Wednesday, the Nigerian community expressed disappointment over the handling of the case, particularly the decision of the South African court to grant bail to the suspected killer.
“The suspect was granted bail and may now be difficult to locate,” Onyekwelu said. “These two men left behind South African wives, six children, and numerous relatives. The community is demanding justice.”
In a separate interview on Thursday, Raji’s cousin, Babatunde Dosumu, revealed that the suspected assailant, identified as Kosina Titanbo, is also a trader in the area. Dosumu alleged that the suspect acted out of racial prejudice after losing his phone at the market.
“He accused Nigerians of stealing his phone. Then, in a fit of rage, he brought out a gun and shot my cousin and his friend,” Dosumu said.
In a related development, NICASA reported that another Nigerian, businessman Silas Ani, was abducted from his residence in Springs, Johannesburg, on April 24, 2025. The association said the kidnapping was carried out by a man identified as Xolani Khumalo, along with others.
According to Onyekwelu, Ani and several others were taken to isolated locations where they were tortured and physically assaulted.
“Some of the victims were released with severe injuries, but Mr. Ani has yet to return, and his whereabouts remain unknown,” he added.
To pursue justice, the Nigerian community has engaged a local law firm, Tony Okorie Attorneys, which is currently handling the matter in the Johannesburg High Court. The case has been postponed for further review by a senior judge before a final ruling is expected.
Onyekwelu appealed to the Federal Government of Nigeria to intervene in the matter, noting that the Nigerian mission and consulate in South Africa have already been briefed on both incidents.
