Senate Moves To Tackle Xenophobic Attacks, Plans South Africa Visit

 

The Senate on Tuesday resolved to set up a joint ad hoc committee comprising members of the National Assembly to address the growing wave of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

The decision followed deliberations on the floor of the upper chamber, with the proposed committee expected to be led by the leadership of the National Assembly.

 

Lawmakers said the panel would embark on a diplomatic and fact-finding mission to South Africa in a bid to identify lasting solutions to the recurring attacks on Nigerian citizens.

As part of its assignment, the delegation is to engage directly with the South African Parliament, where it will formally convey Nigeria’s displeasure over the incidents.

The Senate also resolved to communicate with the leadership of the South African Parliament, while mandating the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on steps taken so far to address the situation.

In addition, the chamber adopted a motion urging a review of agreements reached during the 2019 bilateral meeting between Nigeria and South Africa, with a view to ensuring full implementation.

A proposal by former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, suggesting the withdrawal of operational licences of South African firms operating in Nigeria, including MTN Nigeria and MultiChoice, was, however, dismissed on procedural grounds.

Speaking during the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stressed that diplomatic engagement remained the most appropriate approach, noting that retaliatory economic measures were not being considered.

The resolutions were sequel to a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Bassey Aniekan, which highlighted the increasing attacks on Nigerians abroad and called for immediate intervention.

Debate on the motion witnessed some disagreement, as Aliyu Aliero advocated a closed-door session, a position opposed by Abdul Ningi and other lawmakers who insisted on open deliberations.

During discussions, senators expressed concern over the physical assaults and the psychological impact on Nigerians, noting that many citizens are being singled out and targeted because of their nationality.

The Senate later observed a minute of silence in honour of Nigerians who lost their lives in the attacks.