The [Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg](https://southafrica.consulate.gov.ng) has formally requested a comprehensive inquiry into the death of Odueze Chimezie Odueze, a Nigerian national who died on 9 October 2026 in Cape Town's Parklands area after alleged police torture. The consulate described the incident as a source of deep shock for the victim's family and the broader Nigerian community in South Africa.
According to a press release dated 13 October 2026, the deceased was detained at a shopping centre on suspicion of drug possession and was subsequently taken to his home for a search. The statement, issued by [Consul General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche](https://www.foreignaffairs.gov.ng), said no drugs were found, yet Odueze was reportedly subjected to severe mistreatment.
The mission highlighted a recurring pattern of alleged extrajudicial killings involving Nigerians in South Africa, linking the case to recent xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks on foreign nationals. It urged the [South African police](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_African_Police_Service) and other relevant authorities to investigate the allegations impartially and transparently.
"No matter what the allegations may be, there are processes and steps to justice," the consulate asserted, emphasizing that criminal accusations must follow established legal procedures and that suspects are entitled to a fair hearing before a court.
The consulate called on South African officials to ensure any individuals found responsible for Odueze's death are prosecuted in accordance with the law. It also appealed to Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, law‑abiding, and vigilant amid ongoing threats against foreign nationals.
Condolences were extended to Odueze's family, and the mission reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and rights of Nigerian citizens in South Africa, insisting that "Nigerian and all lives matter."