The Senate has rejected calls for the Federal Government to nationalise South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria, including MTN and DStv, despite strongly condemning the renewed wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
The upper legislative chamber instead urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to protect Nigerians living in the country and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.
The resolutions followed a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South, on the recurring xenophobic attacks and intimidation of Nigerians in South Africa.
Lawmakers expressed concern over fresh attacks that followed the expiration of a June 30 ultimatum allegedly issued by vigilante groups demanding that foreign nationals leave the country. The Senate noted that many Nigerians and other African nationals, including those with valid residency and work permits, had reportedly faced threats, intimidation, displacement and attacks on their businesses and homes.
The chamber observed that the attacks extend beyond immigration enforcement and reflect a pattern of xenophobic hostility directed at individuals based on their nationality or perceived foreign origin.
Senators also recalled Nigeria’s historic support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, highlighting the country’s diplomatic, financial and material contributions to the liberation movement and its longstanding solidarity with the South African people.
During deliberations, Senator Adams Oshiomhole proposed that if the South African government fails to compensate Nigerians who suffered losses during the attacks, Nigeria should consider appropriating profits made by South African businesses operating in the country to support affected victims.
However, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, cautioned against taking drastic measures before the completion of an ongoing investigation by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Barau stressed that while the attacks are unacceptable, decisions should be guided by verified facts and the committee’s findings. He subsequently directed the committee to submit its report within two weeks.
The Senate also urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa to strengthen emergency consular support and compile a verified register of Nigerians affected by the violence to facilitate compensation and legal redress.
Lawmakers further called on the Federal Government to work with other African countries and the African Union to establish an effective monitoring and accountability framework to address xenophobic violence across the continent.
The Senate maintained that while South Africa has the right to enforce its immigration laws, such actions must be carried out through lawful state institutions and in accordance with human rights and international obligations.
The resolution reflects the Senate’s preference for diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation over retaliatory economic measures, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
