Senate Demands Tough Action Against South Africa, Urges Tinubu to Cut Diplomatic Ties Over Xenophobic Killings

The Senate on Tuesday urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to cut diplomatic relations with South Africa in response to the recurring xenophobic attacks and killings of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country.

The call followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong (APC, Cross River South), who expressed concern over the continued attacks on Nigerians living and conducting legitimate businesses in South Africa.

Speaking during the debate, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) said the National Assembly could no longer stand by while Nigerians were being attacked and killed.

According to him, diplomatic protests and condemnations have failed to halt the violence, making stronger measures necessary.

“The Senate, as the people’s chamber, cannot continue to watch Nigerians being killed in xenophobic attacks carried out openly in South Africa. Talking and lamenting will not help. Let us sever relations with South Africa. There must be action,” Ningi declared.

Also contributing, Senator Babangida Hussaini (APC, Jigawa North West) lamented that Nigerians were being targeted and killed in South Africa, urging the Federal Government to strengthen the country’s foreign policy to better protect its citizens abroad.

Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, advocated economic sanctions against South African businesses operating in Nigeria.

He specifically urged President Tinubu to nationalise South African-owned companies such as MTN, Stanbic IBTC Bank and Multichoice, suggesting that proceeds from such action be used to compensate Nigerians who have lost lives, businesses and property as a result of xenophobic attacks.

Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North) and several other lawmakers also condemned the attacks, describing the continued violence against Nigerians and the destruction of their businesses as unacceptable.

The lawmakers called on the Federal Government to adopt stronger diplomatic and economic measures to safeguard the lives, rights and investments of Nigerians residing in South Africa.

The Senate’s resolution comes amid renewed concerns over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, with lawmakers insisting that Nigeria must take decisive action to protect its citizens and send a strong message against attacks on Nigerians abroad.