The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has demanded a full autopsy report for its member, Ekpenyong Andrew, whose body was found at Pretoria Central Morgue after being arrested by South African police officers in Pretoria. Andrew, a Nigerian mechanic, was taken into custody by Tshwane Metro Police on Sunday in the Booysens area while returning home from work. His lifeless body was discovered the following day, Monday, sparking outrage and calls for justice from the Nigerian community in South Africa.
NUSA President Smart Nwobi confirmed the incident in a press statement released to Diaspora Tales on Thursday. He revealed that Andrew’s partner, Ms. Kuma Kaku, reported that police officers had visited their home on Sunday to conduct a drug search, which yielded no evidence of wrongdoing. Despite this, Andrew was arrested and later found dead under suspicious circumstances, raising serious concerns about possible foul play.
Nwobi condemned the incident as an alleged extra-judicial killing, emphasizing that the manner in which Andrew’s body was found points to a grave violation of human rights. A murder case has since been opened at the Hercules South African Police Service in Pretoria Police Station. NUSA is calling for an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Andrew’s death.
The union is demanding more than just an autopsy. It is urging the suspension of the four Tshwane Metro Police officers allegedly involved in the arrest. NUSA also wants the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to lead a swift and unbiased probe. Justice for Andrew and appropriate compensation for his grieving family are also key demands.
This incident is seen as part of a troubling pattern of alleged harassment and abuse faced by Nigerian nationals at the hands of some South African law enforcement officers. NUSA reiterated its commitment to respecting South African laws and institutions, but stressed that the human rights of Nigerians must be protected at all times.
The case has been formally reported to the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria. NUSA has pledged to work closely with both Nigerian and South African authorities to ensure a fair and accountable outcome. Nwobi urged all Nigerian citizens in South Africa to remain calm but vigilant as legal processes unfold. The demand for accountability and justice remains at the forefront as the community seeks answers and systemic change.
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