Africa
South Africa: Nigerian Group Alleges Killing of 58-Year-Old Bishop in Johannesburg
NICASA alleges that 58-year-old Nigerian Bishop Taiwo Fakunle was shot dead at his Johannesburg residence, as the group demands a thorough investigation.
The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has raised the alarm over the alleged killing of a 58-year-old Nigerian bishop, Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle, in Johannesburg.
Fakunle, who hailed from Iye in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, was allegedly shot dead at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, on Friday, September 4, 2026.
NICASA National President, Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, made the disclosure in a statement on Thursday, saying the death had caused deep distress among the deceased’s family, friends and members of the Nigerian community.
Onyekwelu alleged that two suspects gained access to Fakunle’s residence before opening fire on him. The bishop was reportedly shot more than seven times.
Describing the incident as a “horrific and senseless act of violence”, the NICASA president condemned the killing and expressed concern over the continued deaths of Nigerians as a result of violent crime in South Africa.
“This was not merely an ordinary loss of life; it was a horrific and senseless act of violence that has robbed a family of a loved one and the Nigerian community of another precious life,” Onyekwelu said.
He said NICASA had notified the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg about the incident, while a murder case had been registered at Jeppe Police Station.
The group called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other relevant agencies to carry out a thorough and transparent investigation to determine what led to the killing and identify those responsible.
“We demand a thorough and credible investigation that will establish exactly what happened, identify all those responsible, apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that they are brought before the courts to face the full might of the law,” he said.
NICASA further appealed to Nigerian diplomatic officials in South Africa to maintain engagement with South African authorities and closely monitor the investigation until justice is served.
Africans Angle News
