By Stephen Simon
The Senate has directed its Committee on Foreign Affairs to investigate the renewed wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa, following reports that two Nigerian citizens were killed and several others were assaulted or displaced during recent anti-migrant violence. Lawmakers unanimously condemned the attacks and gave the committee two weeks to submit recommendations to guide the Federal Government’s diplomatic response.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Asuquo Ekpenyong, who expressed concern over the growing insecurity faced by Nigerians in South Africa. During the debate, senators described the recurring attacks as unacceptable and urged the Federal Government to take decisive steps to safeguard the lives and property of Nigerian citizens residing in the country.
The debate became heated as some lawmakers advocated stronger retaliatory measures against South Africa. Abdul Ningi called on President Bola Tinubu to consider severing diplomatic ties with South Africa if the attacks persist, arguing that repeated condemnations without concrete action had failed to deter the violence. He also raised concerns over reports that hundreds of Nigerians were seeking repatriation amid growing fears for their safety.
However, the Senate rejected proposals to nationalise South African-owned companies operating in Nigeria, including telecommunications and pay television firms, or use proceeds from such businesses to compensate victims of the attacks. Instead, lawmakers opted for a diplomatic approach, urging the Federal Government to engage South African authorities while insisting that those responsible for the violence be arrested and prosecuted.
Earlier, the Federal Government condemned the killing of two Nigerians identified as Emeka Charles Iroegbu and Musa Joe, describing the incidents as deeply disturbing. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs demanded a thorough investigation by South African authorities and called for those responsible to be brought to justice, warning against the growing trend of profiling and targeting law-abiding Nigerians.
The latest attacks occurred amid renewed anti-migrant protests in South Africa, where some groups have blamed foreign nationals for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services. The violence has prompted concern across Africa, with several countries repatriating their citizens and engaging the South African government through diplomatic channels.
The Senate urged the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa, to obtain firm assurances from the South African government on the safety of Nigerians and to closely monitor developments. Lawmakers said the committee’s report would help shape Nigeria’s next diplomatic and policy steps as efforts continue to protect its citizens and prevent a recurrence of xenophobic violence.
