By NaijaSpora News
JOHANNESBURG — The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has condemned the brutal killing of a 58-year-old Nigerian cleric, Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle, who was shot dead at his home in Johannesburg.
Bishop Fakunle, a native of Iye in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, was killed on Friday, 4 September 2026, at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg.
Announcing the tragedy in a statement on Thursday, NICASA National President Rev. Frank Onyekwelu described the killing as a devastating loss to the cleric’s family, friends and the wider Nigerian community in South Africa.
According to Onyekwelu, two suspects gained entry into Fakunle’s home and opened fire on him, shooting him more than seven times.
He condemned the attack as a “horrific and senseless act of violence,” expressing grave concern over what he called the continued loss of Nigerian lives to 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.
The NICASA president confirmed that the association had reported the incident to the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, while a murder case has been opened at Jeppe Police Station.
He urged the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the killing and to bring those responsible to justice.
NICASA also called for greater protection for Nigerians living and working in South Africa amid growing concerns over violent crime targeting members of the Nigerian community.
The association extended its condolences to the Fakunle family and the Nigerian community, vowing to continue pressing authorities for answers and accountability.
This is a developing story. NaijaSpora News will provide updates as more information becomes available.
