Nigerian Student Isaac Satlat Shot Dead in South Africa, Sparking Xenophobia Fears
Nigerian Student Isaac Satlat Shot Dead in South Africa

Tragic Killing of Nigerian Student in South Africa Sparks Outrage

A 22-year-old Nigerian student, Isaac Satlat from Plateau State, has been brutally shot dead in South Africa, with his body discovered riddled with bullets in Moshongo Province outside Pretoria. This incident occurred just days after the murder of another Nigerian, Emeka Uzor, fueling fears among the Nigerian community of a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks in the country.

Details of the Incident

According to reports shared by Charles Awuzie on Facebook on Thursday, February 12, Isaac Satlat was initially reported kidnapped while driving his father's car. His body was found two days later, with over 12 gunshot wounds, leaving him in a pool of blood. The car he was driving was also vandalized, adding to the brutality of the crime.

Background of the Victim

Isaac Satlat was a student in South Africa, set to graduate in a few weeks with plans to move to Canada to further his academic pursuits. His father, a Christian missionary based in South Africa, has been hospitalized in Nigeria after his blood pressure spiked to over 230 upon receiving the devastating news of his son's death. This tragic loss has not only cut short a promising young life but has also left his family in deep distress.

Community Reaction and Broader Context

The Nigerian community in South Africa has expressed alarm over this killing, viewing it as part of a pattern of violence against Nigerians. Another Nigerian resident highlighted the incident, stating, "No country in Africa hates fellow Africans like South Africa. The hatred of Nigerians in South Africa is such that no Nigerian should go there even if they offer you $100,000." This sentiment underscores the growing tensions and safety concerns for Nigerians living abroad.

This murder follows closely on the heels of the killing of Emeka Uzor, who was gunned down by Xholani Khumalo's team just four days prior. These back-to-back incidents have intensified calls for better protection and justice for Nigerian nationals in South Africa, amid ongoing discussions about xenophobia and security in the region.