The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to take decisive diplomatic and economic actions to address the recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
The call followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Billy Adesuwa Osawaru, representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency of Edo State.
Presenting the motion on the floor of the House, Osawaru expressed grave concern over the persistent attacks, which he said have led to the deaths of Nigerians, destruction of property worth billions of naira, and severe psychological trauma among victims.
“These recurring attacks are not only inhumane but unacceptable in any civilised society,” he said.
He noted that such acts violate the spirit of African unity, the African Union Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and existing bilateral agreements between Nigeria and South Africa, including the Nigeria South Africa Bi-National Commission framework.
According to him, “These agreements were established to foster cooperation, not hostility and violence.”
The lawmaker further recalled Nigeria’s historic role in the liberation of South Africa from apartheid, stressing that the country committed enormous human and material resources to that struggle.
“Nigeria stood firmly with South Africa during its darkest days. It is only fair that our citizens receive reciprocity, respect, and protection,” he stated.
Osawaru lamented that despite repeated diplomatic engagements and assurances from the South African government, Nigerians in that country continue to live in fear due to inadequate protection from security agencies.
“In many instances, those expected to protect lives appear to look the other way or even shield perpetrators,” he alleged.
He cited troubling statistics indicating that over 1,168 Nigerians have reportedly been killed in the past two years, with an average of one Nigerian killed weekly, while more than 200 foreigners have been attacked or maimed, with Nigerians as major victims.
“This pattern of violence is alarming and demands urgent action,” he added.
The lawmaker warned that the continued killings and harassment of Nigerians abroad undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty, damage its international image, and affront the dignity of the nation. “No nation that values its citizens can remain silent in the face of such persistent brutality,” he stressed.
Adopting the motion, the House urged the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to summon the South African High Commissioner to register its displeasure and demand concrete, time-bound guarantees for the safety of Nigerians.
It also mandated relevant committees to establish a 24-hour emergency response desk, provide legal aid, develop evacuation plans, review bilateral agreements, and engage the South African Parliament through the Pan-African Parliament to curb xenophobic violence, with a directive to report back within two weeks.
