NiDCOM Urges Stronger Protection For Nigerians Following Pretoria Murder
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has strongly condemned the killing of a 22-year-old Nigerian e-hailing driver, Isaac Satlet, in Pretoria, South Africa, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all those involved.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Dabiri-Erewa described the rising cases of criminal attacks and killings of Nigerians in South Africa as deeply troubling and a matter of serious concern.
She noted that Nigeria and South Africa share longstanding ties as African brothers and questioned why “evil-minded individuals” continue to perpetrate heinous crimes against fellow Africans.
The NiDCOM boss urged South African authorities to ensure that justice is served and to guarantee the protection of lives and property of foreign nationals residing in the country.
Dabiri-Erewa also emphasized the need to strengthen rapid response protocols and institutionalise structured escalation mechanisms to address diaspora-related incidents. She reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to intensifying risk mapping and strengthening engagement with host authorities to safeguard Nigerians abroad.
Meanwhile, South African authorities have reportedly arrested a female suspect in connection with the brutal killing of Satlet, which occurred on February 11, 2026, after he picked up passengers through an e-hailing platform.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on February 16, 2026, on charges of car hijacking and murder.
Police reports indicate that Satlet was attacked by a male and female pair who hijacked his vehicle. His body and the stolen car were later discovered in Atteridgeville. Dashcam footage capturing part of the incident reportedly aided the swift arrest of the female suspect, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the male suspect. Authorities say more arrests are expected.
The tragic incident has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for improved safety measures for e-hailing drivers.
Satlet, a student who was due to graduate next month, has been described as hardworking and ambitious, with plans to further his studies in Canada.
