Tragedy struck in South Africa as Chinedu Stanley Asuzu, the brother of late Nollywood actor Ernest Asuzu, was brutally murdered by armed assailants at his residence in Johannesburg South on December 16, 2024.
The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) confirmed the incident in a statement released on Monday, December 22.
According to NUSA’s National Publicity Secretary, Akindele Olunloyo, the father of four was reportedly shot dead shortly after his estranged South African wife, Busisiwe Sibanyoni, visited to pick up their children. Witnesses claim armed men stormed the house moments after she left.
NUSA President-General, Hon. Smart Nwobi, and the organization’s legal team are working closely with local authorities to ensure justice is served. A murder investigation has been launched.
Further complicating the tragedy, Chinedu’s estranged wife has allegedly seized his body. Videos shared online reveal accusations that Busisiwe, who is in the middle of divorce proceedings with Chinedu, is refusing to release his corpse.
A Nigerian, identified as Mr. Ade, alleged that the deceased’s assets and finances were controlled by Busisiwe, as Chinedu had used her name to purchase properties and deposit funds due to his lack of a residential permit.
Ade claimed Busisiwe is afraid Chinedu’s family might perform traditional rituals on his body to avenge his death, as purportedly hinted by a message from her friend.
In response to the incident, NUSA issued a statement condemning the act of violence:
“We strongly urge South African law enforcement to bring the perpetrators to justice. To our Nigerian community in South Africa: Stay safe and connected.”
The Nigerian embassy and community have been called upon to intervene and help repatriate Chinedu’s body for proper burial in Nigeria.
This tragic development has sparked outrage, with calls for justice and heightened safety measures for Nigerians living in South Africa.
