Abia State Reacts to Killing of Native in South Africa

The Abia State Government has expressed outrage over the killing of Chika Ibe, a Nigerian from Lokpaukwu in Umunneochi Local Government Area. He was reportedly killed by South African police in Cape Town on Wednesday, July 23, 2026.

In a statement signed by Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, the state government said it received the news with shock and deep sadness.

The statement said, “Governor Alex Otti, on behalf of the government and people of Abia State, commiserates with the family of Mr Ibe and prays for God’s comfort and for the repose of the deceased’s soul.”

Disturbing videos online showed police officers attacking Mr Ibe. In one video, an officer was seen using a plastic bag to suffocate him repeatedly until he died. Mr Ibe was heard shouting, “I’m dying,” but the officers appeared unconcerned.

The investigation into this incident is still ongoing, but the footage shows a level of cruelty that cannot be ignored. Ekeoma pointed out that this killing comes after another report of a Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick, who was shot and is now getting treatment for serious injuries.

The state government has joined the Federal Government in calling for a quick, clear, and independent investigation into this killing. They also want the police involved to be identified, arrested, and prosecuted.

“Anything short of justice will be a further insult to Nigeria and to the memory of this Abian and other Nigerians who have died in similar circumstances,” the statement continued.

The government urged South African authorities to “immediately bring this carnage to a halt” and to manage their citizens better. They described the attacks as “a very sad commentary on Africans who are supposed to live as brothers and sisters.”

Ekeoma reminded everyone that many Nigerians in South Africa have faced killings, assaults, and looting of their businesses. This is part of a troubling trend of xenophobic attacks and violence targeted at them.

“Nigerians in the diaspora deserve to live with dignity and safety, not in fear,” he said.