National Assembly Pushes for Stronger Response to South African Xenophobic Violence

The Nigerian House of Representatives has officially called on the Federal Government to impose strong diplomatic measures against South Africa over a fresh wave of escalating xenophobic attacks. The legislative resolution followed the unanimous adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Rep. Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau). The motion addressed the recurring violence, extrajudicial killings, and systemic persecution targeting Nigerians and other African nationals legally residing in South Africa. The House directed the Federal Government to immediately summon South Africa’s High Commissioner to Nigeria. The envoy must provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the recent killings of Nigerian citizens and clarify Pretoria's official position on protecting foreign nationals.While lawmakers demanded a tough stance, the House rejected proposals to completely suspend or cut diplomatic ties with Pretoria. Lawmakers opted instead to prioritize intensive diplomatic pressure, bilateral reviews, and international legal mechanisms. The Nigerian Parliament called for an independent, transparent, and internationally monitored investigation into the latest extrajudicial killings. Also The House urged the government to engage the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to reinforce safety frameworks for migrants across the continent. In addition Lawmakers demanded immediate enhancements to consular services, emergency evacuation protocols, legal support, and adequate compensation for victims whose businesses and properties were looted or destroyed.The legislative uproar was triggered by the recent killings of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, one of whom reportedly died while under South African police custody.Simultaneously, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed significant discontent regarding South Africa's indifferent reaction to the looting of Nigerian enterprises and the mistreatment of children in educational institutions.

In light of the urgent threat, President Bola Tinubu has sanctioned emergency evacuation flights. The fourth Air Peace flight successfully brought back 282 Nigerians, which included 12 infants, to Lagos.