The Federal Government has expressed deep sadness over the deaths of two Nigerians in separate violent incidents in the United Kingdom and Canada in the early days of the new year.

Speaking through Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocol Unit of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the incidents as shocking and deeply troubling.

She extended heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time.

Dabiri-Erewa also commended the swift responses of the UK Metropolitan Police and the Toronto Police Service, and called for thorough, transparent and timely investigations to ensure that justice is served.

She further assured that, “NiDCOM will work closely with the Nigerian High Commissions in the UK and Canada to provide the necessary support to the affected families, in line with the Commission’s mandate”.

It was reported that John Temitope Onetufo, a 23-year-old Nigerian, was fatally stabbed on New Year’s Eve in the Lewisham area of London, while in Canada, Osemwengie Irorere, a 46-year-old Nigerian, was shot and killed at the Yorkdale GO Bus Terminal in Toronto on Sunday, January 4, 2026. (The PUNCH)