NIGERIAN SENATE MOVES TO ADDRESS XENOPHOBIC ATTACK ON HER CITIZENS IN SOUTH AFRICA

NIGERIAN SENATE MOVES TO ADDRESS XENOPHOBIC ATTACK ON HER CITIZENS IN SOUTH AFRICA

– Joint Committee to Lead Diplomatic Mission as Lawmakers Reject Economic Retaliation.

The Nigerian Senate has resolved to establish a joint ad hoc committee with the House of Representatives to tackle the rising xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.

The committee, which will be led by the National Assembly leadership, is set to undertake a diplomatic and fact-finding mission to South Africa to find lasting solutions to the recurring violence.

Lawmakers said the delegation will engage directly with the South African Parliament to officially convey Nigeria’s strong condemnation of the attacks on its citizens.

As part of wider diplomatic efforts, the Senate also plans to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament, while the Minister of Foreign Affairs will brief lawmakers on ongoing government engagements and progress made so far.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Bassey, 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.”_

During the debate, senators raised alarm over the growing incidents of violence, discrimination, and psychological trauma faced by Nigerians abroad.

“It’s not just about physical attacks. There’s also a disturbing pattern of profiling and dehumanization of Nigerians,” one senator said.

The Senate also revisited bilateral agreements signed between Nigeria and South Africa in 2019, with Senator Simon Lalong urging their full implementation to prevent further escalation.

A proposal by Senator Adams Oshiomhole to revoke the operating licences of South African companies such as MTN and DStv was rejected on procedural grounds.

Senate President, in his remarks, emphasized diplomacy over retaliation.

“These attacks are deeply troubling, but our response must focus on diplomatic engagement rather than economic sanctions,” he said, assuring that the Senate would treat the matter with urgency.

The session briefly turned heated after Senator Aliero proposed holding the debate behind closed doors. The suggestion was opposed by Senator Ningi and others, who insisted on transparency.

The Senate concluded proceedings with a minute of silence in memory of Nigerians who have died in xenophobic attacks in South Africa.