Nigeria’s National Assembly Debates Response to Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa
The Senate held a heated session over renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. Lawmakers clashed between calls for tough sanctions and appeals for diplomatic restraint. Senators described the violence as “barbaric, dehumanising and unacceptable” and warned Nigeria can no longer ignore attacks on its citizens abroad. They agreed to have ECOWAS and the Federal Government take up the matter, including suspending new business permits for South African firms. Adams Oshiomhole urged economic retaliation, suggesting the revocation of MTN and DStv licences, but Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for calm and structured diplomacy. A high-powered delegation will now engage South African authorities to register Nigeria’s concerns. Experts noted economic frustrations and recalled Nigeria’s support in the anti-apartheid struggle as factors driving xenophobia. Lawmakers also recommended reviewing trade and aviation agreements and urged African countries to hold South Africa accountable under the AU free movement protocol.
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