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The Nigerian Senate has resolved to set up a joint ad hoc committee with the House of Representatives to address the rising cases of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
The committee, to be led by the Chairman of the National Assembly, will embark on a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to South Africa to find lasting solutions to the crisis.
As part of its mandate, the delegation is expected to visit the South African Parliament to formally convey Nigeria’s displeasure over the reported attacks.
The Senate also plans to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament and invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on the outcome of ongoing engagements.
The chamber further upheld a resolution by Simon Lalong calling for a review of agreements reached during a 2019 bilateral meeting between Nigeria and South Africa, with a view to ensuring their implementation.
Meanwhile, Adams Oshiomhole proposed revoking the operational licences of South African firms such as MTN and MultiChoice in Nigeria, but the suggestion was rejected on procedural grounds.
In his remarks, the Senate President emphasised the importance of diplomatic engagement, noting that economic retaliation against businesses would not be the preferred option. He stressed that the Senate considers the attacks weighty and would address the issue with urgency.
The resolutions followed a motion of urgent national importance moved by 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 deliberations, lawmakers were divided over whether to move the discussion to a closed session after Aliero suggested it. This was opposed by Ningi and others, who insisted on open debate.
Lawmakers expressed concern over not only the physical attacks but also the growing climate of fear, psychological trauma and dehumanisation faced by Nigerians abroad, noting that many are increasingly profiled and targeted based solely on their nationality.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of Nigerians who have lost their lives in the attacks.
