The Nigerian Senate has taken a decisive step to address the escalating xenophobic violence against its citizens in South Africa by forming a joint ad hoc committee with the House of Representatives. This committee, led by the National Assembly leadership, is tasked with conducting a diplomatic mission to South Africa to find lasting solutions to the recurring attacks.
Lawmakers revealed that the delegation will meet directly with the South African Parliament to officially express Nigeria’s concerns over the mistreatment of its nationals. The Senate also plans to reach out to the Speaker of the South African Parliament, while the Minister of Foreign Affairs will update legislators on diplomatic efforts.
The resolution emerged from a motion on urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Bassey, which highlighted the worsening xenophobic persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana. The motion called for immediate national, diplomatic, and humanitarian action to protect the dignity and safety of Nigerian citizens.
During debates, senators voiced alarm over the rising violence, psychological trauma, and discrimination faced by Nigerians abroad. One lawmaker noted that the issue goes beyond physical attacks, encompassing a system of profiling and dehumanization.
The Senate also revisited the 2019 bilateral agreements between Nigeria and South Africa, following a motion by Senator Simon Lalong, and urged their full implementation to prevent further escalation. A proposal to revoke operational licenses of South African firms like MTN and DStv, made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, was dismissed on procedural grounds.
The Senate President emphasized diplomacy over economic retaliation, stating that while the attacks are deeply concerning, the response should prioritize diplomatic engagement. He assured that the matter would be treated urgently.
A brief disagreement arose when Senator Aliero proposed a closed-door debate, but Senator Ningi and others opposed, insisting on transparency. The session concluded with a minute of silence for Nigerians killed in the attacks.