The Nigerian National Assembly has condemned in strong terms the continued xenophobic attacks and extrajudicial killings of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.
It described the violence as ‘barbaric and a significant threat to diplomatic relations.’
The National Assembly resolved to send a delegation to the Parliament of South Africa to express its displeasure over the incidents and seek lasting measures to protect affected citizens
This latest development follows recent reports of protests in South Africa aimed at illegal immigration, which caused anxiety among foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
Following a motion by Senator Osita Izunaso, the Senate resolved to send a high-level delegation led by President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to address renewed anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa that has seen attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
The delegation will consist of a joint ad hoc committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives aimed at finding lasting solutions to the crisis.
As part of its mandate, the delegation is expected to visit the South African Parliament to formally express Nigeria’s strong displeasure over the reported attacks.
The Senate plans to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament, as well as invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on the outcomes of their engagements.
The House of Representatives has also condemned the latest wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, calling on the Nigerian Government “to take immediate diplomatic and protective measures.”
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Donald Ojogo and seconded by Billy Osawaru during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Lawmakers urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to immediately initiate diplomatic steps to halt the killings, while calling on the administration of Bola Tinubu to begin evacuation plans for Nigerians willing to leave South Africa.
In addition, the House recommended a review of bilateral relations between both countries, including a temporary suspension of business permits for South African companies operating in Nigeria.
