By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Senate has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider severing diplomatic relations with South Africa following recurring xenophobic attacks that have claimed the lives of Nigerians and other foreign nationals.
The resolution was adopted during Tuesday’s plenary after lawmakers debated a motion sponsored by Asuquo Ekpeyong, who condemned the continued attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.
Leading the debate, Abdul Ningi said the Senate could no longer remain silent while Nigerians were being killed in what he described as open xenophobic attacks.
According to him, previous diplomatic efforts have failed to stop the violence, making it necessary for the Federal Government to adopt stronger measures.
“The Senate, as the people’s chamber, cannot continue to watch Nigerians being killed in xenophobic attacks carried out openly in South Africa. Talking and lamenting will not help. There must be action,” Ningi said.
Also contributing, Babangida Hussaini called for a review of Nigeria’s foreign policy to ensure better protection for Nigerians living abroad.
In a more far-reaching proposal, Adams Oshiomhole suggested that the Federal Government take over South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria, including MTN Nigeria�, Stanbic IBTC Bank� and MultiChoice Nigeria�.
Oshiomhole argued that proceeds from such assets could be used to compensate Nigerians who have suffered losses from xenophobic attacks.
Several other lawmakers, including Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno, also condemned the repeated attacks and destruction of Nigerian-owned businesses in South Africa.
The Senate ultimately called on the Federal Government to explore stronger diplomatic and economic measures to protect Nigerians living in South Africa and bring an end to the recurring attacks.
The latest resolution reflects growing concern among lawmakers over the safety of Nigerians abroad and renewed calls for a firmer response to repeated incidents of xenophobic violence.
