Nigeria Launches Diplomatic Push to Address Xenophobic Attacks on Citizens in South Africa
In response to escalating xenophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa, Nigeria’s National Assembly has taken decisive action by forming a joint committee to investigate the crisis and propose solutions. The move follows growing outrage over the attacks, which have not only claimed lives but also left the Nigerian diaspora in South Africa living in fear.
The newly established committee, comprising members of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, will be chaired by the National Assembly’s leadership. Their mandate includes a fact-finding mission to South Africa, where they plan to engage directly with the South African Parliament to express Nigeria’s strong condemnation of the violence. Additionally, lawmakers intend to invite Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief them on the outcomes of these diplomatic efforts.
Senator Simon Lalong’s motion to revisit agreements made during a 2019 bilateral meeting between Nigeria and South Africa was also upheld. The Senate seeks to ensure these resolutions are implemented effectively to safeguard Nigerian citizens abroad.
The decision came during a heated Senate session on Tuesday, where lawmakers observed a minute of silence to honour Nigerians who have lost their lives in the attacks. Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East, read a motion titled “Intensifying Xenophobic Persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana: A Call for Urgent National, Diplomatic and Humanitarian Action to Defend the Dignity, Safety and Honour of Nigerian Citizens.” The motion, sponsored by Senator Osita Izunaso, underscored the urgent need for action.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, took a firmer stance, calling for Nigeria to retaliate economically against South Africa. He suggested revoking the operating licenses of major South African companies in Nigeria, such as MTN and Multichoice (owners of DSTV). “If you hit me, I hit you,” Oshiomhole declared, emphasizing that Nigeria must respond firmly to protect its citizens.
However, not all lawmakers supported this approach. Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, cautioned against economic retaliation, stressing the importance of diplomacy in resolving the crisis. He urged the Senate to handle the matter with urgency and seriousness, ensuring that Nigerians abroad are protected from further harm.
The Senate session also highlighted the psychological toll on Nigerians living in South Africa, with lawmakers expressing concern over the growing climate of fear and dehumanization. Many Nigerians are reportedly being profiled and targeted solely because of their nationality, prompting calls for stronger international protections.
The Senate remains divided on how best to address the crisis, with some senators advocating for closed-door deliberations. Senator Adamu Aliero, representing Kebbi Central, proposed stepping down the motion for private discussions, but this was swiftly countered by Senator AbdulNingi of Bauchi Central, who insisted on keeping the debate public.
As tensions mount, Nigeria’s diplomatic push aims to restore dignity and safety for its citizens abroad while fostering stronger bilateral relations with South Africa. The joint committee’s findings and recommendations will be crucial in shaping the country’s next steps.
Meanwhile, Nigerians at home and abroad are watching closely, hoping for a resolution that ends the violence and ensures justice for those affected.
— Reported by Nexio News
