According to a statement released by the family’s legal team, led by human rights lawyer Ifeanyi C. Ejiofor, a formal petition was submitted to the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria on May 30, calling for “an immediate and transparent investigation” into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Ekemezie’s death on May 25, 2025.

The family of Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie, a Nigerian man who died following an alleged violent encounter with Swiss police officers in Lausanne, is demanding justice and full accountability as the Swiss government formally acknowledges an ongoing investigation into the incident.

According to a statement released by the family’s legal team, led by human rights lawyer Ifeanyi C. Ejiofor, a formal petition was submitted to the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria on May 30, calling for “an immediate and transparent investigation” into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Ekemezie’s death on May 25, 2025.

In an official response dated June 4 and signed by Chargé d’Affaires Mr. Siamak Rouhani, the Swiss Embassy confirmed that the competent Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the case.

However, citing the country’s strict data protection laws and the principle of separation of powers, the Embassy declined to release further details.

The family, while acknowledging receipt of the Embassy’s correspondence, expressed deep concerns over what they describe as a troubling lack of transparency.

The statement said, “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,” the statement also read.

“It is a human tragedy. A mother grieves. A family mourns. A nation watches with bated breath.”

Ejiofor said, "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 mattered. His name must not fade. His story must not be buried."

Ejiofor added, "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."

Meanwhile, the Embassy of Switzerland acknowledged receipt of the family's correspondence through Ejiofor in a letter dated May 30, 2025.

The Embassy noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has no information concerning the circumstances of the tragic event.

The statement read, "The Embassy would like to inform that the competent prosecutor's office has launched an investigation about the death of a person of African origin on 25 May 2025 at a police station in Lausanne, Switzerland. The results of this investigation are pending.

"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 Ministry of Foreign Affairs therefore has no information concerning the circumstances of this tragic event.”

"The deceased's family and its agent - supported by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Bern - can therefore interact directly with the competent cantonal authorities," the statement added.

On May 30, 2025, SaharaReporters reported that the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) had announced plans to investigate the death of Ekemezie, who died after an alleged violent encounter with Swiss police officers in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The 39-year-old, a native of Awka North in Anambra State, reportedly died shortly after being taken into custody by law enforcement authorities in Switzerland.

It was reported that despite Kelechi repeatedly shouting, “You’re hurting me,” the officer continued to forcefully restrain him.

The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday night and ended with Kelechi collapsing and dying less than an hour later at a police station.

Swiss authorities, in a statement reported by AFP, claimed that the incident occurred during routine police check related to suspected drug activity.

They alleged that Kelechi attempted to flee but was later apprehended.

Swiss authorities also claimed that Kelechi became unwell during questioning and died despite emergency resuscitation efforts.

“After the situation calmed down, the man was taken to the police station for questioning,” officials were quoted as saying.

“During the intervention, he became unwell and died shortly before 10:00 p.m., despite efforts by emergency medical services to revive him.”