By: Victor Gbonegun
Date: 17 February
The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, yesterday condemned the killing of a 22-year-old Nigerian e-hailing driver, Isaac Satlat, in Pretoria, South Africa, and called for the prosecution of those responsible.
Satlat, who hailed from Plateau State, was reportedly attacked on February 11, 2026, after picking up passengers through a ride-hailing platform. He was a student in South Africa and was due to graduate next month before his death.
Police reports indicated that two men and a woman allegedly hijacked his vehicle and assaulted him. His body and vehicle were later found in Atteridgeville, Pretoria West.
Speaking through NIDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa described the incident as disturbing and urged South African authorities to ensure justice is served. She also called for improved protection of Nigerians and other non-indigenes residing in the country.
She noted that Nigeria and South Africa share longstanding ties and expressed concern over recurring violent crimes against Nigerians.
Meanwhile, three suspects — Dikeledi Tears Phela, Gositsiane Machidi and McClaren Mushwana — have been arrested in connection with the killing. They appeared before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of premeditated murder and aggravated robbery.
The court remanded them in custody after they withdrew their bail application. The case was subsequently postponed for further investigation.
According to South African media reports, e-hailing drivers and supporters staged a protest outside the courthouse, chanting “Justice for Isaac” and demanding stronger safety measures for operators on digital ride-hailing platforms.
Part of the attack was reportedly captured on the vehicle’s dashcam and circulated widely on social media, triggering outrage.
Satlat was remembered by associates as hardworking and ambitious, with plans to further his studies in Canada.
