The National Assembly has moved to confront rising xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, with plans to dispatch a joint ad hoc committee for a fact-finding and diplomatic mission.
The decision on Tuesday, May 5, followed a resolution by the Senate to work with the House of Representatives in setting up the committee, which will be led by the leadership of the National Assembly.
The delegation is expected to travel to South Africa to engage directly with authorities and explore practical solutions to the recurring attacks on Nigerians.
As part of its mandate, the team will meet with the South African Parliament to formally express Nigeria’s concerns over the treatment of its citizens.
Lawmakers also agreed to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament, while the Minister of Foreign Affairs will be invited to brief the legislature on ongoing diplomatic engagements and their outcomes.
In addition, the Senate adopted a motion by Senator Simon Lalong calling for a review of resolutions reached during a 2019 bilateral meeting between Nigeria and South Africa, with a view to ensuring their full implementation.
During deliberations, Senator Adams Oshiomhole suggested revoking the operational licences of South African companies such as MTN and DSTV in Nigeria. However, the proposal was ruled out on procedural grounds.
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In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stressed that diplomatic engagement remains the preferred path, noting that economic retaliation against businesses would not be the best approach.
He added that the Senate considers the matter serious and is committed to addressing it with urgency.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance raised by Senator Bassey titled: “Intensifying Xenophobic Persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana: A Call for Urgent National, Diplomatic and Humanitarian Action to Defend the Dignity, Safety and Honour of Nigerian Citizens.”
The motion triggered debate among lawmakers, particularly over whether discussions should be held behind closed doors.
Senator Aliero supported a private session, but Senator Ningi and others opposed the move, insisting that deliberations remain open.
Lawmakers expressed concern over the growing incidents of violence, as well as the fear and psychological distress faced by Nigerians abroad, noting that many are being targeted because of their nationality.
The Senate concluded proceedings by observing a minute of silence in honour of Nigerians who have lost their lives in xenophobic attacks in South Africa.