The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has condemned the killing of 22-year-old Nigerian e-hailing driver, Isaac Satlet, in Pretoria, South Africa, describing the incident as unacceptable and deeply disturbing.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Dabiri-Erewa called on South African authorities to ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of all those involved, noting that recurring violent incidents against Nigerians in South Africa remain a serious concern.
She acknowledged the long-standing diplomatic and historical ties between Nigeria and South Africa, rooted in solidarity during the anti-apartheid struggle, but expressed disappointment that such relations have not prevented repeated attacks on Nigerians.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” she stressed, urging South African authorities to guarantee the protection of lives and property of foreign nationals.
Dabiri-Erewa said NiDCOM would strengthen rapid response protocols and institutionalise structured escalation mechanisms to handle diaspora-related emergencies. She added that the Commission would intensify risk mapping and deepen engagement with host authorities to enhance the safety of Nigerians abroad.
Meanwhile, South African police have reportedly arrested a female suspect in connection with the murder, which occurred on February 11, 2026, in Pretoria West. The suspect is expected to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on February 16 on charges of car hijacking and murder.
Police reports indicate that Satlet had picked up two passengers—a male and a female—through an e-hailing platform before he was attacked and his vehicle hijacked. His body and the stolen car were later discovered in Atteridgeville. Authorities are still searching for the male suspect.
Dashcam footage is said to have aided the arrest, while further investigations continue.
The killing has triggered outrage within the Nigerian community in South Africa and at home, with renewed calls for improved safety measures for e-hailing drivers who often operate in high-risk environments.
Satlet, described as hardworking and ambitious, was reportedly preparing to graduate next month and had plans to pursue further studies abroad.
Dabiri-Erewa reaffirmed that while Nigeria respects South Africa’s sovereignty, the safety and protection of Nigerians abroad remain non-negotiable.
Michael Olugbode
About the Author
