The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to suspend the issuance of business permits to South African companies operating in Nigeria, in response to the resurgence of xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa. The lawmakers also demanded a comprehensive review of bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Africa, including trade and aviation agreements, until South African authorities take decisive measures to curb the violence and prosecute those responsible.
Motion of Urgent Public Importance
The resolution was passed following the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Donald Ojogo (APC, Ondo) and seconded by Billy Osawaru (APC, Edo) during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu. The lawmakers condemned the latest wave of violence targeting foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, describing it as alarming and unacceptable. They urged the Federal Government to take immediate diplomatic steps to protect Nigerian citizens and prevent further attacks.
Alarming Xenophobic Violence
Ojogo stated, “The fresh xenophobic violence currently ravaging South Africa has reached an alarming rate to the extent that Nigerian nationals in that country are being selectively targeted.” He expressed concern over the deaths of two Nigerians, Ekpenyong Andrew and Amaramiro Emmanuel, in separate incidents linked to rising anti-foreigner tensions. Andrew was arrested on April 19, 2026, in Pretoria following an alleged altercation with Tshwane Metro Police, and his body was later found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary. Emmanuel died from injuries sustained after being beaten by personnel of the South African National Defence Force on April 20, 2026.
Ingratitude and Diplomatic Strain
The lawmakers emphasized that both incidents involved South African security personnel, which they found shocking. They noted that the targeted attacks against Nigerians demonstrate ingratitude, given Nigeria’s role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. The House warned that the trajectory in South Africa could provoke anger and reprisals in Nigeria, and called for measures to prevent such outcomes.
Demands for Action
The House urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to summon the South African High Commissioner to register Nigeria’s displeasure and demand concrete assurances on the safety of Nigerians residing in South Africa. Additionally, the Green Chamber asked the Federal Government to develop and publicize an evacuation plan for Nigerians willing to return home, particularly those in volatile areas, with provisions for financial and logistical support.
Emergency Response and Legal Support
The House mandated its Committees on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora to liaise with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to establish a 24-hour emergency response mechanism and provide legal support for affected Nigerians. Lawmakers noted that recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa has remained a major source of diplomatic strain, recalling previous outbreaks that led to deaths, destruction of property, and retaliatory tensions. They stressed the need for firm and proactive measures to safeguard Nigerians abroad while preventing a deterioration of relations between both nations.
