Nigeria’s House of Representatives has called for decisive diplomatic and economic retaliatory measures against South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic violence targeting Nigerian citizens.
During a plenary session on Tuesday, lawmakers expressed outrage over the reported deaths of Ekpenyong Andrew and Amaramiro Emmanuel, who were victims of separate violent incidents.
The House warned that the escalating threats, harassment, and mob assaults against foreigners in South Africa have reached a breaking point, requiring more than just verbal condemnations.
The motion, introduced by Hon. Donald Ojogo and Hon. Billy Osawaru, prompted the House to urge the Federal Government to immediately prepare for the evacuation of Nigerians wishing to flee the affected areas.
Beyond safety concerns, the lawmakers proposed a significant downgrade in bilateral relations, including the potential suspension of diplomatic ties, trade agreements, and aviation pacts.
They further recommended a review of tax benefits and a temporary freeze on new business permits for South African companies operating within Nigeria to signal the gravity of the situation.
In a direct diplomatic rebuke, the House directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to summon the South African High Commissioner to formally protest the killings and demand ironclad safety guarantees.
To provide immediate relief to those on the ground, the Committee on Foreign Affairs has been mandated to collaborate with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to establish a 24-hour emergency help desk and a dedicated legal support fund for victims. This framework is expected to include both logistical and financial aid for those caught in the crossfire of the violence.
Presiding over the session, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu condemned the attacks as a profound betrayal of African solidarity and the historical bond between the two nations.
He emphasized that the recurring nature of these hate crimes undermines the spirit of continental unity. Consequently, the House has called upon the Pan-African Parliament to intervene aggressively, urging the body to lead a continental effort to eradicate xenophobia and prevent future hate crimes across the region.
