RismadarVoice Reporters, July 28, 2026
The Abia State Government has condemned the alleged killing of a Nigerian citizen, Chika Ibe, in South Africa, calling on the Federal Government to urgently engage South African authorities and demand a thorough investigation into the incident.
The state government said Ibe, an indigene of Lokpaukwu in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, reportedly died after an alleged assault involving members of the South African Police Service in Cape Town on July 23, 2026.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, expressed concern over videos circulating on social media that allegedly showed police officers assaulting Ibe before his death.
According to the government, one of the videos appeared to show officers allegedly using a polyethene bag to repeatedly restrict Ibe’s breathing.
The state described the alleged treatment of the Nigerian citizen as cruel and disturbing, particularly as Ibe was reportedly heard crying out that he was dying.
“In one of the videos, Mr Ibe was heard shouting, ‘I’m dying,’ but the police officers allegedly continued their actions until he became unresponsive,” the statement said.
The Abia State Government also referred to reports that another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick Chuks, was allegedly shot and is currently receiving treatment for serious injuries in South Africa.
The government called on the Federal Government to seek immediate clarification from the South African authorities and ensure that the circumstances surrounding Ibe’s death are investigated promptly.
It further demanded a swift, transparent and independent investigation into the incident, stressing that those found responsible should be held accountable in accordance with the law.
The state government said it would continue to follow developments surrounding the case and urged relevant authorities to take necessary steps to protect the lives and rights of Nigerians living abroad.
