A 58-year-old Nigerian cleric, Bishop Taiwo Fakunle, has been shot dead at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, South Africa, in an attack that has triggered concern within the Nigerian community and renewed calls for stronger protection of Nigerians living in the country.
Fakunle, an indigene of Iye in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, was reportedly killed on Friday, September 4, 2026, after two suspects allegedly gained access to his residence and opened fire on him. The assailants reportedly shot the cleric more than seven times before fleeing the scene.
The incident was disclosed by the Nigerian Citizens Association of South Africa (NICASA) in a statement issued by its National President, Rev. Frank Onyekwelu on Thursday.
NICASA said the circumstances surrounding his death had left his family, church community and Nigerians in South Africa devastated.
According to NICASA, two suspects allegedly gained access to the bishop’s residence and opened fire on him, reportedly shooting him more than seven times.
The association described the incident as horrific and senseless act of violence and expressed concern over the continued loss of Nigerian lives to violent crime in South Africa.
NICASA President, Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, said the incident had been reported to the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg.
A murder case has also been opened at Jeppe Police Station as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the bishop’s death.
NICASA has called on Nigerian diplomatic authorities to continue engaging with South African authorities and closely monitor the investigation until justice is served.
The association also urged relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible for Fakunle’s alleged killing are identified and held accountable.
-9News Nigeria.
