Lagos, Nigeria – The family of Mr. Abdul Olatunji, a Nigerian businessman incarcerated in South Africa, has made an urgent plea for intervention from the Nigerian government and the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa. They claim Olatunji is the victim of false charges and judicial corruption, and they are calling for immediate action to prevent further harm.
At a press conference in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday, the family, represented by Mr. Ben Abraham, founder of Zarephath Aid, voiced their concerns over what they described as xenophobic persecution. Olatunji, who has been in South African detention since 2019, is reportedly facing life-threatening conditions in prison.
Abraham, who specializes in international criminal justice, shared that Olatunji’s prolonged imprisonment has devastated his family, including the recent death of his mother, reportedly brought on by the trauma of her son’s ordeal. He urged the Nigerian government to intervene quickly, fearing for Olatunji’s life.
“If the Nigerian government does not intervene, we risk losing a citizen who has always brought pride to our country. He is being targeted by corrupt South African officials,” Abraham said.
Olatunji, originally from Osun State, moved to South Africa in 2009 and became a successful figure in the hospitality and tourism industries. As CEO of Hydro Club, a hospitality consultancy in Johannesburg, he employed and supported many Nigerians, earning significant recognition within the Nigerian diaspora community. However, his success allegedly made him a target of xenophobic rivals and corrupt officials.
In 2019, Olatunji was accused of theft and sentenced to 15 years in prison. His family and supporters insist the charges are fabricated and part of a coordinated effort to ruin his reputation, which they have dubbed the “#DestroyAbdul” scheme.
A petition to Nigeria’s Attorney-General, Lateef Fagbemi, outlined serious allegations of wrongful arrest, denial of bail, coerced confessions, and numerous legal violations. Despite being granted permission to appeal in November 2024, Olatunji continues to face significant legal hurdles. His lawyers have withdrawn from the case, citing intimidation from South African authorities, leaving him to represent himself in court.
Olatunji’s brother, Abdul Sesan, expressed grave concern for his sibling’s well-being, citing reports of physical abuse, health deterioration, and the confiscation of his legal documents. Over 20 lawyers have resigned from his defense due to alleged pressure from South African authorities.
“This case goes beyond Abdul Olatunji,” Abraham stressed. “It is about Nigeria standing up for its citizens abroad and ensuring justice for those wrongfully persecuted.”
Watch the press conference below
