Members of the Zulu regiment known as the ‘Amabutho’ chant slogans as they march during a demonstration by the "March and March" movement marking an unofficial deadline set by citizen-led groups for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa, in Durban, on June 30, 2026. Photo by RAJESH JANTILAL / AFP
The Senate on Tuesday warned that Nigeria could review its diplomatic relations with South Africa if renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians continue, as lawmakers condemned the reported targeting of Nigerian citizens and businesses.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Asuquo Ekpeyong, who drew the attention of the Red Chamber to the June 30, 2026, ultimatum allegedly issued to Nigerians residing in South Africa, describing it as a grave threat to their safety and livelihoods.
The development comes amid renewed concerns over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have over the years claimed the lives of several Nigerians, destroyed businesses and repeatedly strained diplomatic relations between both countries.
During plenary, senators called on the Federal Government to secure firm guarantees from the South African authorities for the protection of Nigerians while urging decisive diplomatic engagement to prevent a recurrence.
