Senate condemns attacks on Nigerians, seeks guarantees from South Africa
Senate Threatens Diplomatic Review with South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks
The Nigerian Senate has issued a warning regarding a potential review of diplomatic relations with South Africa if recent xenophobic attacks against Nigerians persist. This warning came in response to a motion introduced by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong, which highlighted an ultimatum reportedly given to Nigerians residing in South Africa on June 30, 2026.
During a plenary session on Tuesday, lawmakers characterized the situation as a serious threat to the safety and livelihoods of Nigerians in the country. Senators condemned the alleged attacks on Nigerian citizens and their businesses. They urged the Federal Government to seek formal guarantees from South African authorities to ensure the protection of Nigerians.
Senator Salihu Mustapha emphasized the need for a decisive response, stating that Nigeria should not remain passive in light of the attacks on its citizens. “We cannot continue to fold our arms while Nigerians are being killed and their businesses looted,” he said, suggesting a complete severance of diplomatic relations with South Africa.
In contrast, former Senate Leader Yahaya Abdullahi cautioned against hasty measures. He expressed concern that the attacks might be part of broader efforts aimed at destabilizing the South African government, rather than isolated incidents. Abdullahi urged Nigeria to proceed with caution while evaluating the situation.
Following discussions, the Senate instructed the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa, to secure written assurances regarding the safety of Nigerian citizens. Lawmakers also called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attacks.
Additionally, the Senate directed relevant bodies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and the Nigerian High Commission, to compile reports on all instances involving Nigerians who have been killed, injured, displaced, or unlawfully detained, with the aim of pursuing compensation.
The Senate further encouraged the Federal Government to collaborate with the African Union and other affected nations to create an early warning system and accountability measures to prevent future xenophobic incidents.
Finally, the Senate tasked its Committees on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Affairs with reviewing the implementation of prior resolutions related to xenophobic attacks and providing a report within two legislative weeks.