\n\n
The family of a Nigerian man allegedly killed in South Africa has appealed to authorities to release and return his body to Nigeria for burial. The deceased’s brother, Onyema Ekpenyong, made the emotional appeal while speaking about the mysterious death of his sibling, identified as Andrew, whose body was reportedly discovered in a mortuary shortly after South African police visited his residence. 
According to Onyema, his late brother left Nigeria nearly two decades ago after relocating from Abuja to South Africa in 2007, where he worked as a mechanic and built a life for himself. He explained that family members became alarmed after members of the Nigerian community in South Africa informed them that Andrew’s lifeless body had been found in a morgue under suspicious circumstances. Onyema said the family is still struggling to understand what truly happened, adding that no arrest has been made in connection with the death. 
The grieving brother disclosed that their aged mother has been devastated by the tragedy and has repeatedly pleaded to see her son’s body before burial. He revealed that Andrew had recently promised their mother he would return to Nigeria in December, making the sudden news of his death even more painful for the family. Onyema appealed to South African authorities to assist in repatriating the corpse so the family can give him a proper burial in his hometown. 
The incident comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa and renewed calls for stronger diplomatic engagement between both countries. Nigerian authorities recently confirmed ongoing investigations into reported killings and attacks involving Nigerians in South Africa, as community groups continue demanding justice and better protection for migrants. 
