Two Nigerians have died in Libya under circumstances suspected to be linked to poisoning, while two others were brutally shot dead in South Africa.
In Libya, the deceased, identified only as Collins and Osas, were reported to have passed away in Tripoli after what sources described as suspected food poisoning.
Both men were residents of Misrata but had travelled to the Libyan capital on 20 July in the company of another Nigerian friend whose identity has not yet been disclosed.
According to sources, the three friends visited a place called Oshofana in Tripoli, which is said to be a hub for various underground dealings.
After spending four days there, their companion opted to return to Misrata, but Collins and Osas allegedly declined, insisting they wanted to stay behind.
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“He returned alone, only to later claim that he received a call that his two colleagues had died after being poisoned,” the source recounted, noting that suspicion has trailed the incident due to inconsistencies in the companion’s account.
Another source said: “Given the nature of Oshofana, and knowing the kind of activities that go on there, some of us are not satisfied with his explanation. Investigations are still ongoing, and people are monitoring closely.”
Both Collins and Osas have since been buried in Libya, according to the source.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident in South Africa, two Nigerians were gunned down in Durban on Thursday, 9 July. The victims, identified as Austin and Ayo, were killed by three masked gunmen who stormed Austin’s office at around 8 p.m.
Witnesses said the assailants forced their way inside, found both men, and shot them at close range.
A friend of one of the deceased, who identified himself only as Fidelis, confirmed the killings. “They died on the spot,” he said.
While raising concerns over the safety of Nigerians living abroad, he called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to intensify consular efforts to protect its citizens.
