Nigeria’s House of Representatives adopts a resolution calling on the federal government to strengthen diplomatic engagement with South Africa following reports of renewed xenophobic attacks and deaths of Nigerians there. The chamber considers the issue under a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by lawmakers, with the matter receiving broad support in plenary. Members cite allegations of violence and intimidation against Nigerians and other African nationals, describing the situation as a recurring diplomatic flashpoint. One outlet reports claims that two Nigerians die in separate incidents, including one allegedly while in police custody and another reportedly killed outside a business premises. The House calls for Nigeria to seek clarification from South Africa’s authorities and to pursue accountability through diplomatic and international channels. Proposed steps include summoning South Africa’s envoy to Abuja to explain Pretoria’s position on protecting Nigerians, pushing for investigation of the killings involving Nigerians and other Africans, and engaging regional and global bodies to ensure migrant protection. The resolution also includes reviewing bilateral relations with South Africa, potentially including suspension of some cooperation, strengthening consular services, and supporting Nigerians who return home. An ad hoc committee is set up to engage South Africa’s parliament and government and related regional institutions, with an expected report within about 21 days.
Nigeria’s House of Representatives seeks action over renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa
Nigeria’s House of Representatives adopts a resolution calling on the federal government to strengthen diplomatic engagement with South Africa following reports of renewed xenophobic attacks and death...
- The House of Representatives calls on Nigeria’s federal government to take stronger diplomatic action regarding South Africa after reports of renewed xenophobic attacks.
- Lawmakers urge improved protection for Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa and seek accountability for alleged killings.
- The resolution includes summoning South Africa’s High Commissioner/envoy in Abuja to explain Pretoria’s position on protecting Nigerians.
- The House calls for international and/or external investigations and engagement with bodies such as the AU and UN to support migrants and ensure responsibility.
- An ad hoc committee is to engage South Africa’s parliament and relevant institutions, with a report due in about 21 days.
The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to impose strong diplomatic measures against South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks, extrajudicial killings, and alleged systematic persecution of Nigerians and other African nationals.The resolution was adopted after a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Yusuf Gagdi, who represents Kanke/Kanam/Pankshin Federal Constituency of Plateau State. The motion received unanimous support during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.Gagdi condemned the repeated violence against Nigerians, noting that recent reports confirm fresh attacks on citizens from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi. He highlighted the killing of two Nigerians, one allegedly in police custody and another murdered outside his business premises.Recalling Nigeria’s pivotal role in the anti-apartheid struggle, Gagdi described the current treatment of Nigerians in South Africa as “profoundly disturbing” and a betrayal of African solidarity. He warned that continued attacks undermine pan-African unity and regional integration.Other lawmakers, including Billy Osawaru, Moshood Akiolu, Ghali Tijjani, and Adebayo Adepoju, echoed calls for decisive action. They urged intensified diplomatic engagement, legal redress, and support for affected Nigerians, while also advocating for the summoning of South Africa’s High Commissioner in Abuja.The House resolved to:Summon South African envoy to explain Pretoria’s position on protecting Nigerians.Push for international investigation into the killings of Nigerians and other Africans.Engage AU and UN to ensure accountability and protection of migrants.Review bilateral ties with South Africa, including possible suspension of cooperation.Strengthen consular services and provide reintegration support for Nigerians returning home.An ad hoc committee will also be constituted to engage South Africa’s Parliament, government, and regional institutions, with a report expected within 21 days.Xenophobic violence in South Africa has remained a recurring diplomatic flashpoint, with major outbreaks in 2008, 2015, and 2019 claiming lives and destroying businesses owned by foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
1 month agoBy Gift ChapiOdekina ABUJA — The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to strengthen diplomatic engagement with South Africa following reports of renewed xenophobic attacks and the deaths of Nigerians in the country. The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the Chairman of the House […] The post Reps seek review of Nigeria–South Africa relations over xenophobic attacks appeared first on Vanguard News.
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