A Nigerian bishop, Taiwo Michael Fakunle, has been killed in a shooting at his residence in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The incident was disclosed on Friday by the Nigerian Citizens Association, South Africa, NICASA, which called for a thorough investigation into the killing.

NICASA National President, Rev Frank Onyekwelu, said Fakunle, an indigene of Ekiti State, was attacked at his home in the Kensington area of Johannesburg.

According to Onyekwelu, two unidentified persons reportedly gained entry into the residence and shot the bishop several times.

He said the incident had been formally reported to the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, while a murder case had been registered at the Jeppe Police Station.

Onyekwelu urged the South African Police Service, alongside Nigerian diplomatic authorities, to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the killing were fully investigated and that those responsible were brought to justice.

“According to the information available to NICASA, two suspects gained access to his residence and opened fire on him, reportedly discharging more than seven bullets,” he said.

The NICASA president described the killing as a devastating loss to both the deceased’s family and the Nigerian community in South Africa.

“This was not merely an ordinary loss of life; it was a horrific and senseless act of violence that has robbed a family of a loved one and the Nigerian community of another precious life,” Onyekwelu said.

He called for concerted efforts by the police and Nigerian diplomatic representatives to ensure that the investigation was conducted comprehensively and that the perpetrators faced justice.

The circumstances that led to the shooting, including the motive of the attackers and how they gained access to the bishop’s residence, were not disclosed by NICASA.

The association said it was engaging the relevant authorities as efforts continue to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

late Nigeria bishop shot dead at his Johannesburg residence