The family of Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie, a Nigerian citizen who died in police custody in Lausanne, Switzerland, on May 25, 2025, has petitioned the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), demanding a full investigation into the incident, justice, and immediate repatriation of his remains.
Ekemezie, originally from Anambra State, was reportedly subjected to excessive and brutal force by Swiss police officers, resulting in his death by asphyxiation. The family, through their legal representative, Barr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor, likened the tragic event to the killing of George Floyd in the United States five years ago, also on May 25.
In a strongly worded petition to the Swiss authorities, the family demanded a transparent investigation, prosecution of the officers involved, public access to all evidence including autopsy reports and bodycam footage and compensation for the wrongful death.
“The silence and inaction from Swiss authorities represent a serious violation of international human rights obligations. The brutal manner in which Michael was killed and the lack of transparency are deeply disturbing,” Ejiofor stated.
The family also urged the Swiss government to take responsibility for the incident by supporting the dignified repatriation of the body to Nigeria, as well as financial support for funeral arrangements.
Following the incident, Nigerians and other Africans living in Switzerland have taken to the streets in protest, expressing outrage over the apparent lack of accountability and transparency in the handling of Ekemezie’s death. The protests, largely peaceful, have been marked by emotional appeals for justice and human rights.
Ejiofor revealed that the legal team has already submitted petitions to relevant international bodies, including the United Nations Human Rights Council and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, should the matter not be addressed urgently.
“Michael was a hardworking man who lived in Switzerland for over a decade in pursuit of a better life. His death is a painful reminder that African lives continue to be treated as disposable in many parts of the world,” he said.
“Unlike the global attention George Floyd’s case received, Michael’s death has been met with an alarming silence from international media and institutions. This is unacceptable,” he added.
The family urged the Nigerian Government to assertively engage with Swiss authorities, while calling on civil society organizations, international media, and human rights groups to spotlight the case and ensure justice is served.
“This is not just about one man’s death. It is about justice, dignity, and the value of Nigerian lives abroad,” Ejiofor concluded.
