Abia State Demands Probe into Alleged Killing of Nigerian by South African Police
The Abia State Government has called for a swift investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the death of Chika Ibe, who it says died during a police operation in Cape Town on 23 July.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Governor Alex Otti’s media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the government described the incident as “brutal” and “condemnable in the strongest terms,” saying it received the news “with shock and deep sadness.”
Mr Ibe, who hailed from Lokpaukwu in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, was allegedly tortured before his death during the operation.
The incident comes amid renewed diplomatic concerns between Nigeria and South Africa over attacks on Nigerian nationals and other African migrants.
The Abia State Government said videos circulating online appeared to show police officers assaulting Mr Ibe before one officer allegedly suffocated him repeatedly with a polythene bag.
According to the government, Mr Ibe could be heard crying, “I’m dying,” but the officers allegedly continued until he stopped breathing.
