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The death of Nigerian citizen Ekpenyong Andrew following his alleged arrest by Tshwane Metro Police officers in Pretoria, South Africa, has sparked widespread grief and outrage among the Nigerian community and diaspora. Andrew, a motor mechanic and father of five, was reportedly arrested on Sunday, April 19, in the Booysens area of Pretoria while returning home from work. His partner, Ms Kuma Kaku, stated that police visited their residence the same day to conduct a drug search, which yielded no evidence of wrongdoing. The next day, Andrew’s body was found at the Pretoria Central Morgue under circumstances that strongly suggest foul play, prompting immediate calls for justice.

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) described the incident as deeply disturbing and issued a statement condemning what it called an extra-judicial killing. In the statement released on Wednesday by its president, Smart Nwobi, and national publicity secretary, Akindele Olunloyo, NUSA confirmed that a murder case has been opened at Hercules SAPS, Pretoria Police Station, under case number CAS 224/04/2026. Sergeant Lowkani has been assigned as the investigating officer. The union is demanding a swift, thorough, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Andrew’s death.

NUSA is calling for the immediate release of the full autopsy report and the disclosure of the official cause of death. The organisation is also demanding the suspension of the four Tshwane Metro Police officers allegedly involved in the incident. It urged the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to conduct an unbiased and prompt probe into the matter. Justice for Ekpenyong Andrew and appropriate compensation for his grieving family are central to NUSA’s demands.

The union reiterated that while it respects South African laws and institutions, the human rights of Nigerian nationals must be protected at all times. This incident, according to NUSA, is part of a troubling pattern of alleged harassment and violations against Nigerians by some members of South African law enforcement. The organisation has already informed the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria about the case and will continue to work closely with both Nigerian and South African authorities to ensure accountability.

NUSA representatives plan to meet with Andrew’s family to offer emotional and logistical support during this difficult time. The union urged all Nigerian citizens in South Africa to remain calm but vigilant as legal and diplomatic channels are pursued. The case has drawn attention to the safety and rights of Nigerians living abroad, particularly in countries where they may face systemic challenges. As investigations continue, the hope remains that justice will be served for Ekpenyong Andrew and his family.