Trending 
The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive assessment of the losses suffered by Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa and urged the Nigerian Government to pursue compensation for victims.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State, during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
Lawmakers mandated the House Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document casualties, economic losses and properties abandoned by Nigerians during the attacks.
The committees are also expected to compile an inventory of abandoned properties and recommend diplomatic and legal measures to improve the protection of Nigerians living in South Africa.
The House urged the Nigerian Government to intensify diplomatic engagement, pursue legal action where necessary and strengthen bilateral cooperation with South Africa to safeguard Nigerians in the country.
Lawmakers said a detailed assessment of the attacks would help support affected citizens and improve Nigeria’s response to similar incidents in the future.
During the same plenary, the House also considered a motion calling for a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets since May 29, 1999.
The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, proposed the establishment of a national digital registry of recovered assets and an ad hoc committee to improve transparency, accountability and legislative oversight.
The House also received the report of its Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police, alongside reports relating to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets.
Meanwhile, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) criticised the failure of some heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies to honour its summons.
The committee also insisted that the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser appear before it to explain how the council allegedly operated despite questions over its legitimacy.
