Lawmakers suspend South Africa engagements over attacks on Nigerians
The National Assembly has suspended all official legislative visits to South Africa and directed lawmakers to boycott South African-hosted or organised legislative activities over renewed xenophobic attacks and growing threats against Nigerians and other African nationals.
The decision followed a fresh wave of violence, intimidation and attacks on foreign nationals amid anti-immigrant protests in South Africa demanding that migrants leave the country.
In a recent statement signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, the joint leadership of the Senate and House of Representatives said the suspension covered all official visits to South Africa and the boycott of South African-hosted or organised legislative activities until further notice.
The National Assembly said the decision reflected its “grave concern for the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.”
It called on the South African government to take urgent measures to protect Nigerians and other African nationals, investigate reported attacks, arrest suspected perpetrators and prosecute those found culpable.
The suspension and boycott will remain in force until further notice and may be reviewed by the National Assembly leadership depending on developments.
About 1,490 Nigerians have reportedly been repatriated by the Federal Government amid the unrest, while some Nigerians were said to have suffered attacks, property losses and difficulties with their residency status. Nigerian officials also said at least 98 Nigerians had been killed in xenophobic attacks since 2022.
The Federal Government has condemned the attacks, commenced the evacuation of affected Nigerians and summoned South African officials for discussions. The Senate and House of Representatives have also condemned the renewed attacks and called for stronger measures to protect Nigerians and ensure justice for victims.
