Nigerian Bishop Fakunle shot dead in South Africa, FG demands probe

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has condemned the killing of a Nigerian national, Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle, in Johannesburg, South Africa, and called on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure the perpetrators face justice.

The Consulate made its position known in a press statement dated September 11, 2026, signed by the Consul General, Ambassador (Mrs.) Niniknawa O. Okey-Uche.

According to the statement, Fakunle was killed on September 4, 2026, at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, by assailants who had yet to be identified.

The Consulate described the killing as a “gruesome murder” and said the incident had caused deep shock and pain to the deceased’s family, the Nigerian community and diplomatic missions in South Africa.
It expressed particular concern over what it described as the recurrence of similar incidents involving Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country.

The Consulate said the circumstances surrounding Fakunle’s death had raised questions about the safety of Nigerians and other foreigners living in South Africa.

It further noted that there were concerns that the killing might have been targeted, stating that the assailants allegedly traced Fakunle to his residence, shot him several times and burgled the house.

The Nigerian mission consequently called on the relevant South African authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the killing and ensure the eventual prosecution of those responsible.

It also urged the South African government to take “sterner measures” to safeguard the lives of Nigerians in the country and strengthen the protection of their properties.

The Consulate’s position comes amid broader concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa, where anti-migrant sentiments and attacks have periodically generated diplomatic concerns.

While expressing its grief over Fakunle’s death, the Nigerian mission appealed to Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and security-conscious.

The Consulate also referred to a September 30 deadline issued by an anti-migrant group for foreigners to leave South Africa, noting that the appeal for calm was being made in the wake of the murder and against the backdrop of that development.

The Consulate extended its deepest condolences to Fakunle’s family and prayed for the repose of his soul.
It also reaffirmed its responsibility to oversee the welfare and fair treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.

Dear Vows