Crime

Justice Served: Italian Man Sentenced to 24 Years for Killing Nigerian Citizen

Published

7 months ago

September 29, 2023

Stella Charles Akupue

Justice, Legal Perspective, Nigerians in Diaspora, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Italian Man, Prison Sentence, Murder, Accountability, Diplomatic Missions, Nigerians Abroad, International Cooperation.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has expressed her satisfaction with the justice served in the case of Filippo Ferlazzo, an Italian man who killed a Nigerian citizen in Italy.

This tragic incident occurred on July 29, 2022, when Alika Ogorchukwu, who sold handkerchiefs in the area, lost his life after being brutally attacked by Filippo Ferlazzo.

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The Italian Police believe that Ferlazzo assaulted Ogorchukwu after the Nigerian man had asked Ferlazzo’s girlfriend to purchase a handkerchief. The incident unfolded on Civitanova Marche, Italy’s main central street, tragically ending with paramedics discovering Ogorchukwu dead at the scene.

In a significant legal development, an Italian Court has sentenced Ferlazzo to 24 years in prison for causing the death of a Nigerian citizen. This verdict reflects the gravity of the crime committed.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in her response to the judgement, expressed her satisfaction, stating, “I am glad that this case finally got justice. Like I always say, there has to be consequences for actions.” Her statement underscores the importance of accountability in cases of violence against Nigerians abroad.

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She also commended the Nigerian Mission in Rome for their dedicated pursuit of justice in this case and other instances involving Nigerians. This commendation highlights the vital role played by diplomatic missions in safeguarding the rights and interests of Nigerian citizens in foreign countries.

Furthermore, Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerians living in the Diaspora to uphold the law, excel in their endeavours, and connect with their homeland by contributing positively to its development. This message emphasizes the importance of Nigerians abroad serving as ambassadors of their nation and fostering positive relationships with their host countries.

From a legal perspective, Ferlazzo’s 24-year prison sentence serves as a form of justice for the victim and his family. It sends a strong message about the consequences of committing violent crimes against Nigerians abroad. It underscores the principle of accountability and the need for legal redress in cases involving harm to Nigerian citizens living overseas.

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Moreover, this case highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing crimes that transcend borders. It signifies the significance of diplomatic efforts and the role of Nigerian missions abroad in seeking justice for their citizens.

In conclusion, while this verdict is a positive development in the pursuit of justice, it also serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and legal protection for Nigerians in the Diaspora. Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s call for Nigerians abroad to remain law-abiding and engaged with their homeland echoes the idea of fostering a sense of unity and responsibility among citizens at home and overseas.