The Senate on Tuesday dismissed proposals for Nigeria to seize South African-owned businesses such as MTN and DStv in response to renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, opting instead to press for stronger diplomatic engagement and accountability from Pretoria.
The debate marked the second time in two months that the red chamber has deliberated on the worsening attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
While condemning the violence, lawmakers resolved to urge the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa, to secure written guarantees from the South African authorities on the safety of Nigerians following the expiration of the June 30, 2026 ultimatum issued by vigilante groups.
The Senate also demanded the arrest and prosecution of all those responsible for killings, intimidation, looting and unlawful immigration enforcement.
The resolutions followed the consideration of a motion titled Need to Halt the Recurring Xenophobic Attacks and Intimidation Against Nigerians and Other African Nationals in the Republic of South Africa,”sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South).
