KWAZULU-NATAL, South Africa – The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has called on the South African government to launch a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr. Francis Idika, a Nigerian physician who died in the country on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at the age of 54.
Dr. Idika, a medical manager at Vryheld Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, is said to have suffered from bullying, victimisation, wrongful disciplinary charges, and prolonged abuse, according to NICASA.
The association has expressed deep concern that these factors may have contributed to his tragic death.
NICASA President Frank Onyekwelu, in a statement released on Saturday, April 12, 2025, described Dr. Idika’s death as “smeared with suspicion.”
Onyekwelu alleged that Dr. Idika had been ejected from his apartment, which forced him to sleep in his car, leading to severe depression.
The NICASA president also noted that despite the hardships Dr. Idika faced, he remained a dedicated health professional, fully committed to his patients and the healthcare system.
“His death is a huge devastating loss, not only to his family and healthcare colleagues but to the entire Nigerian community,” Onyekwelu stated.
“Dr. Idika’s legacy as a selfless doctor who cared deeply for his patients should not be overshadowed by the injustices he suffered.”
NICASA is now calling for an independent investigation into the events leading up to Dr. Idika’s death.
The association urged the South African Ministry of Health and other human rights organisations to ensure accountability and bring those responsible to justice.
Onyekwelu further emphasised that an injustice to one is an injustice to all, highlighting the broader implications for the Nigerian community in South Africa.
The Nigerian government has also been urged to intervene in this case, with NICASA seeking international support to ensure that Dr. Idika’s death is thoroughly examined and that justice is served.
The loss of Dr. Idika has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian expatriate community in South Africa, with many mourning the untimely death of a doctor who dedicated his life to caring for others.
NICASA’s call for an investigation seeks not only to uncover the truth behind his death but also to address the broader issues of mistreatment and injustice faced by Nigerian expatriates in South Africa.
