“Destroy Abdul” Scheme: Family of Nigerian Man in South African Prison Seeks Justice

The family of Mr Abdul Olatunji, a Nigerian citizen currently imprisoned in South Africa, has made an urgent plea for intervention from the Nigerian government and the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

They seek immediate assistance to save his life from what they describe as false and malicious charges orchestrated by corrupt South African state agents.

A distressing petition from Mr Abdul’s family, presented by Mr Ben Abraham, founder of Zarephath Aid, an international criminal justice organization, reveals that this successful businessman and humanitarian is in imminent danger in a South African prison, where he has been held since 2019.

The family highlights a troubling combination of xenophobia, judicial corruption, and alleged state-sanctioned persecution against Abdul.

This situation has caused them immense distress, further compounded by the fact that their mother passed away due to the trauma associated with the case.

They are calling for the Nigerian government to act swiftly to prevent the death of a citizen who has dedicated years to improving the well-being of fellow Nigerians abroad.

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“If the Nigerian government does not intervene, a citizen who has consistently brought glory to Nigeria and enhanced the lives of Nigerians in South Africa could die at any moment, potentially at the hands of rogue South African agents,” they stated.

Mr Abdul Olatunji, originally from Osun State, has lived in South Africa since 2009, becoming a prominent figure in the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. As the founder and CEO of Hydro Club, a leading hospitality consultancy in Johannesburg, he has employed and assisted countless Nigerian businesses, students, and tourists, establishing himself as a key figure in the Nigerian diaspora community.

Unfortunately, his success has made him a target for xenophobic South African business competitors and corrupt officials.

In 2019, these adversaries allegedly initiated a scheme called “#DestroyAbdul,” aimed at undermining his reputation and business ventures.

The petition outlines numerous legal abuses following his arrest, including wrongful imprisonment, denial of bail, and coerced confessions. Abdul was eventually sentenced to 15 years in prison on theft charges, which his supporters maintain were fabricated.

Despite being granted leave to appeal his sentence in November 2024, Abdul faces significant challenges in securing legal representation for his case, as multiple lawyers have withdrawn due to threats and intimidation from South African authorities.

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Thus, he is forced to represent himself in court amidst dire circumstances.

The family further reveals that Olatunji is suffering from physical and emotional trauma in prison, with growing concerns that he could be poisoned. His health has deteriorated, and his personal laptop, previously permitted for legal preparation, has been confiscated by higher authorities.

“This is not just about one man,” said the founder of Zarephath Aid, the organization advocating for Olatunji’s release. “This is a call for Nigeria to protect one of its own, a shining example of what Nigerians can achieve in the diaspora. Abdul is not a criminal—he is a victim of a deliberate plan to destroy him.”

As concerns about Olatunji’s safety continue to mount, there are increasing calls for both the Nigerian and South African governments to intervene immediately.

The Nigerian government is urged to stand up not only for Abdul but for all Nigerians who contribute positively abroad and face unjust persecution.

“We cannot afford to lose a son, a father, a contributor to the diaspora, and above all, a human being. Nigeria must act now.”