…Ask FG to summon South African envoy over killings of Nigerians
By Christiana Ekpa
The House of Representatives on Thursday called on the Federal Government to review Nigeria’s diplomatic, political and economic relations with South Africa over renewed xenophobic attacks, extra-judicial killings and alleged persecution of Nigerians and other African nationals.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the Chairman of the House Committee on Navy, Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi (APC, Plateau), during plenary in Abuja.
Moving the motion, Gagdi decried what he described as an escalating wave of violence against foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly Nigerians.
He said the House was disturbed by recurring attacks that had led to the loss of lives, destruction of businesses, unlawful arrests, forced displacement and widespread fear among Nigerians and other Africans residing in the country.
The lawmaker cited recent reports confirming the killing of two Nigerians, including one who allegedly died in police custody and another who was reportedly murdered in front of his business premises.
According to him, the incidents exposed Nigerians and other African nationals to grave danger despite years of diplomatic engagements between both countries aimed at curbing xenophobic violence.
Gagdi recalled Nigeria’s historic role in the struggle against apartheid, noting that the country provided diplomatic leadership, financial support, humanitarian assistance and political backing that contributed significantly to South Africa’s liberation.
“It is profoundly disturbing that Nigerians and other Africans now face persecution, humiliation and violent attacks in a country whose freedom they helped secure,” he said.
He expressed concern that xenophobic violence in South Africa had become recurrent, systematic and increasingly deadly, lamenting that perpetrators often escape justice despite repeated assurances by the South African government to protect foreign nationals.
The lawmaker also condemned what he described as inflammatory remarks by a South African junior minister, warning that such comments could incite hostility against Nigerians and worsen an already volatile situation.
The House observed a one-minute silence in honour of Nigerians and other African nationals who lost their lives in the attacks.
It also urged the Federal Government to summon the South African High Commissioner to Nigeria to explain the recent killings and clarify South Africa’s position on the safety of Nigerians living in the country.
Lawmakers further called for an independent, transparent and internationally monitored investigation into the deaths of the affected Nigerians and other African victims to ensure that those responsible are prosecuted.
The House also adopted an amendment urging the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to secure adequate compensation and redress for Nigerians affected by the attacks, including the families of those killed and individuals whose businesses and properties were destroyed.
In addition, the lawmakers urged the Federal Government to engage the African Union, the Southern African Development Community, the United Nations and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to ensure accountability and stronger protection for African migrants in South Africa.
The House further called for the strengthening of consular services, legal assistance, emergency evacuation arrangements and reintegration support for Nigerians willing to return home.
To sustain legislative engagement on the issue, the House proposed the constitution of an ad hoc committee to interface with the South African Parliament, the South African government, the African Union and other relevant institutions, investigate the recurring attacks and report back within 21 legislative days with recommendations for further legislative and diplomatic action.
Lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to consider recalibrating aspects of Nigeria’s cooperation with South Africa until credible guarantees are provided for the safety and protection of Nigerians and other African nationals in the country.
