The House of Representatives on Thursday called on the Federal Government to strengthen diplomatic engagement with South Africa following fresh reports of xenophobic attacks, unlawful arrests and the killing of Nigerians in the country.
The lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to review Nigeria’s bilateral relations with South Africa where necessary and take stronger diplomatic steps to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians living in the Southern African nation.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the Chairman of the House Committee on Navy, Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi (APC, Plateau), during plenary.
Moving the motion, Gagdi expressed concern over reports of renewed attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, describing the development as disturbing and unacceptable.
He said media reports indicated that at least two Nigerians had recently died in separate incidents, while others had been subjected to unlawful arrests, attacks and the destruction of their businesses and property.
According to the lawmaker, the Federal Government must take urgent steps to ensure that Nigerians residing in South Africa are adequately protected.
Gagdi also reminded the House of Nigeria’s historic role in supporting South Africa during the struggle against apartheid, noting that successive Nigerian governments and citizens made enormous sacrifices in the fight to end racial discrimination and secure democracy in South Africa.
He said the long-standing relationship between both countries should be guided by the principles of African unity, peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and protection of citizens.
The lawmaker argued that recurring xenophobic attacks threaten those ideals and could undermine relations between two of Africa’s biggest economies.
Following debate on the motion, the House strongly condemned the reported attacks and killings.
The lawmakers observed a one-minute silence in honour of Nigerians and other African nationals who lost their lives in the reported incidents.
The House urged the Federal Government to summon the South African High Commissioner to Nigeria to seek clarification on the circumstances surrounding the reported attacks and the measures being taken by the South African authorities to protect Nigerians living in the country.
Lawmakers also demanded an independent, transparent and credible investigation into the reported deaths.
They said anyone found responsible for the attacks or killings should be prosecuted in accordance with South African law.
The House further urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts aimed at securing justice, support and compensation for affected Nigerians.
According to the resolution, this support should include assistance for the families of those who lost their lives as well as Nigerians whose businesses, homes or other properties were destroyed during the attacks.
The lawmakers also called on the Federal Government to engage relevant regional and international organisations to address the recurring problem of xenophobia on the African continent.
Specifically, they urged Nigeria to work with the African Union (AU), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the United Nations and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to strengthen the protection of African migrants and improve accountability for attacks against foreign nationals.
The House also resolved that Nigeria should review its bilateral relations with South Africa where necessary in order to protect the country’s national interests and the welfare of its citizens abroad.
Lawmakers further called for improved consular services for Nigerians living in South Africa.
They urged the Federal Government to strengthen legal assistance and provide necessary support for Nigerians who may wish to voluntarily return home because of insecurity or fear arising from the attacks.
As part of its resolutions, the House agreed to establish an ad hoc committee to engage with relevant stakeholders, including members of the South African Parliament, South African authorities and regional organisations.
The committee is expected to examine the situation, explore possible diplomatic solutions and submit its report to the House within 21 legislative days with recommendations for further legislative and diplomatic action.
Xenophobic violence has remained a major concern in relations between Nigeria and South Africa for more than a decade.
Although both countries enjoy strong diplomatic and economic ties and are among Africa’s largest economies, several outbreaks of violence against foreign nationals have strained relations.
In previous incidents, Nigerian-owned businesses were looted or destroyed, while several Nigerians were attacked or killed during waves of anti-foreigner violence in parts of South Africa.
The attacks have often triggered protests in Nigeria and prompted diplomatic engagements between the two governments.
Successive Nigerian administrations have repeatedly called on South African authorities to protect Nigerians and other foreign nationals living within their borders.
The Nigerian government has also, at different times, evacuated citizens who expressed fears over their safety following major outbreaks of xenophobic violence.
South African authorities have consistently condemned xenophobic attacks and pledged to prosecute offenders.
However, reports of renewed violence have continued to generate concern among African leaders, civil society organisations and human rights groups.
They also warn that repeated violence against African migrants could weaken regional cooperation and undermine the vision of a united Africa promoted by the African Union.
The latest resolution by the House of Representatives signals growing concern within Nigeria over the safety of its citizens abroad and reflects calls for stronger diplomatic engagement to prevent further attacks.
If implemented, the lawmakers’ recommendations could lead to renewed discussions between Nigeria and South Africa on the protection of citizens, stronger consular cooperation and improved mechanisms for preventing xenophobic violence.
The House maintained that while Nigeria remains committed to maintaining cordial relations with South Africa, the safety, dignity and rights of Nigerians living in the country must remain a top priority in the relationship between both nations.