-
A 58-year-old Nigerian cleric, Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle, founder of Settled Word Leadership and Theological Seminary, South Africa, has been shot dead at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg.
-
The Ekiti State indigene was reportedly killed on Friday, September 4, 2026, after two unidentified suspects gained access to his home and shot him multiple times before fleeing the scene.
-
The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) said it has formally notified the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, while a murder case has been opened at Jeppe Police Station for investigation.
-
NICASA has called on the South African Police Service and Nigerian diplomatic authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, identify and arrest the perpetrators and ensure that those responsible for the killing are brought to justice.
September 11, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has reported the killing of a 58-year-old Nigerian cleric, Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Fakunle, an indigene of Ekiti State and founder of Settled Word Leadership and Theological Seminary, South Africa, was reportedly shot dead at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, on Friday, September 4, 2026.
NICASA National President, Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, disclosed the incident in a statement, saying two unidentified suspects gained access to the bishop’s residence and shot him multiple times.
The circumstances surrounding the attack, including the motive for the killing and how the suspects gained access to the residence, were not immediately disclosed.
Onyekwelu said NICASA had formally notified the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg following the incident. He added that a murder case had been opened at Jeppe Police Station, where the South African authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the cleric.
NICASA called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the killing and ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
READ ALSO:
The association also urged Nigerian diplomatic representatives in South Africa to closely monitor the investigation and engage the relevant South African authorities to ensure that the case receives the necessary attention.
NICASA stressed the need for justice for Fakunle, his family and associates, while expressing concern over the safety of Nigerians living and carrying out legitimate activities in South Africa.
The death of the bishop comes amid persistent concerns over attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
However, NICASA’s account did not establish that Fakunle was killed as a result of xenophobia, and the motive for the shooting remains unknown pending the outcome of police investigations.
The association urged the authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and ensure that anyone found responsible is arrested and prosecuted.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
