By Chukwudi Ebele
The Switzerland Government has at last launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged brutal murder of a Nigerian citizen, Mr. Michael Ekemezie in Lausanne, Switzerland on May 25, 2025.
The investigation was in response of a strongly worded petition written to the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria, by a human rights lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor Esq. on behalf of the bereaved family of the slain Michael Ekemezie.
Ejiofor had in his petition to the Swiss Government, demanded for a full scale investigation, written apology and adequate compensation to the bereaved family of the slain Ekemezie.
Consequently, a letter from the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria, dated Wednesday, June 4, 2025 and addressed to Barrister Ejiofor, stated that the Embassy of Switzerland would like to inform him that the competent prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the death of an African origin in a police station in Lausanne, Switzerland on May 25, 2025.
The letter titled: “The Embassy of Switzerland acknowledges your letter dated May 30, 2025” and signed by the Chargé d’Affaires of Swiss Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria, Mr. Siamak Rouhani, however stated that the results of the investigations are pending.
According to Mr. Rouhani, “In accordance with the principle of separation of powers and of the protection of personal data, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not hold any information concerning ongoing cantonal proceedings and cannot interfere in them”.
The statement concluded by saying: “The Ministry therefore has no information concerning the circumstances of this tragic incident. The deceased’s family and it’s agent, supported by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Bern, can therefore interact directly with the competent cantonal authorities”.
But in a reaction shortly after receiving and assimilating the letter on behalf of the bereaved Ekemezie family, Ejiofor stated:
“While we take note of this official acknowledgment and the initiation of investigative proceedings, we remain deeply concerned about the lack of transparency and the continued silence surrounding the exact circumstances of Mr. Ekemezie’s death”.
According to Ejiofor, “A young Nigerian life was lost, under suspicious and distressing conditions, while in the custody of a country that proudly upholds itself as a global advocate of human rights, justice, and the rule of law. This is not just a legal matter, it is a human tragedy. A mother grieves. A family mourns. A nation watches with bated breath”.
“We therefore reiterate, with unwavering resolve, our demand for a thorough, transparent, and expedited investigation. Justice must not be shielded behind bureaucratic procedures. It must not be delayed. And it must never be denied”.
“We urge the Swiss Government and all relevant authorities to fully cooperate with the Government of Nigeria and the legal representatives of Mr. Ekemezie’s family. Every diplomatic and legal channel must be pursued. The truth must be uncovered. Accountability must be served.
Michael Ekemezie’s life matters. His name must not fade. His story must not be buried”.
“To the Government of Switzerland: Your global standing as a guardian of human dignity, justice, and democratic values is now being tested. Let those values speak, not merely through words, but through decisive and transparent action.To the international community: We call upon your conscience. Stand with us. Speak out. Demand accountability. Justice for Michael is justice for all”, said Ejiofor.