The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed sadness over the tragic and senseless killing, on Sunday, of a Nigerian, Emeka Christian, in Pune, Pisoli Area, India, over romantic dispute.
NiDCOM reacted to the killing incident in a press release e-signed by its Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, on Saturday.
The deceased was allegedly beaten to death by two fellow Nigerian nationals, Chukwudi Okafor (31), and Samuel Eze, (34).
The two assailants have since been reportedly arrested by the police for the death of Emeka Christian.
As reported by India Today, the 40-year-old victim was beaten to death after an argument broke out during a late-night gathering on Sunday at the residence of a Nigerian woman in Pisoli.
Christian was said to have been at the apartment with other Nigerians for dinner when the disagreement erupted.
According to police, the dispute centred on the woman, who was reportedly in a romantic relationship with one of the suspects and frequently received him at her residence.
“One of the accused was in a relationship with the woman and used to visit her frequently. The victim objected to this, which led to a quarrel,” a police source told India Today.
The disagreement continued late into the night and escalated around 3 a.m. when Emeka decided to leave the apartment.
“The argument turned violent when the victim tried to leave. He was beaten with a hard object, causing serious injuries,” India Today quoted police sources as saying.
Christian was rushed to the hospital by the Vice President of the Nigerian Students Union in Pune, Gift Utah, but died while receiving treatment.
Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the killing as a very sad one, and charged the Indian authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones during this painful time. No family should endure such heartbreak.
“NiDCOM calls on the relevant Indian authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation, ensuring that justice is served without delay.
“We also urge all Nigerians in the diaspora to always be their brothers’ keepers, resolve conflicts peacefully through dialogue, and uphold the highest standards of conduct.
“As ambassadors of our great nation in their respective domains, your actions abroad reflect on Nigeria’s image, let us choose unity, respect, and lawfulness in every situation.
“Violence has no place among us. Together, we can build a stronger, more positive Diaspora community”, Abike Dabiri-Erewa counselled.
