By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Senate has called for urgent diplomatic intervention over renewed wave of xenophobic attacks, intimidation and anti-foreigner vigilantism targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. The senate considered the nationalization of South African investments in Nigeria by the federal government, including MTN, Stanbic Bank, DSTV, etc.
The resolution followed the consideration of a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who expressed concern over reports that anti-migrant groups issued an ultimatum directing undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa by June 30, 2026.
According to the motion, the expiration of the ultimatum was followed by widespread fear, demonstrations, displacement and attacks on foreign-owned homes and businesses.
The Senate also noted that despite repeated attacks on Nigerian-owned businesses in South Africa, South African companies operating in Nigeria, including MTN and DStv, have continued to operate without reprisals, describing Nigeria’s response as one guided by restraint, African solidarity and respect for the rule of law.
Supporting the motion, Senator Wasiu Eshilokun proposed that the Federal Government consider nationalising South African-owned companies operating in Nigeria, with the proceeds used to compensate Nigerians who have suffered losses from repeated xenophobic attacks.
However, former Senate Majority Leader, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, urged caution, warning that the matter involved complex international and domestic political considerations that required careful handling to avoid unintended diplomatic consequences.
After deliberations, the Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, referred the motion to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for further legislative scrutiny and directed the committee to submit its report to the Senate for further action.
