Reps urge FG to reassess Nigeria–South Africa ties over xenophobic attacks

THE House of Representatives has called on the Nigerian government to reconsider its bilateral agreements with South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in the country.

The resolution was passed during Tuesday’s plenary after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Donald Ojogo, who represents Ilaje/Ese-Odo federal constituency in Ondo State.

The move comes amid rising anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa, which have reportedly led to the deaths of at least two Nigerians since last month.

Presenting the motion, Ojogo described the situation as deeply concerning, noting that the violence has escalated to an alarming rate and appears to be directed specifically at Nigerians.

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He identified the victims as Ekpenyong Andrew and Amaramiro Emmanuel, who died in separate incidents. According to him, Andrew was arrested on April 19 in Pretoria after an alleged confrontation with police and was later found dead in a morgue. Emmanuel, on the other hand, succumbed to injuries sustained after reportedly being assaulted by personnel of the South African National Defence Force on April 20.

Ojogo stressed that both cases were particularly troubling because they involved South African security operatives.

He further described the attacks as a sign of ingratitude, citing Nigeria’s historical role in supporting South Africa’s fight against apartheid.

Warning of possible backlash, the lawmaker said the trend could provoke anger and reprisals in Nigeria if not urgently addressed.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, echoed similar concerns, highlighting Nigeria’s longstanding contributions to the development and stability of other African nations.

He said attacks on Nigerians abroad should be treated with utmost seriousness, adding that citizens who once benefited from Nigeria’s support should not subject fellow Africans to hostility.

The motion was subsequently adopted through a voice vote.

Following its adoption, the House urged the Federal Government to review existing bilateral agreements with South Africa, including trade and aviation deals. It also recommended targeted economic actions such as temporarily halting the issuance of business permits to new South African companies and reassessing tax incentives granted to firms already operating in Nigeria.

Lawmakers said these measures should remain in place until South Africa takes concrete steps to stop the attacks, bring perpetrators to justice, and compensate victims.

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In addition, the House directed its committees on foreign affairs, diaspora, and African cooperation to work with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to establish a 24-hour emergency response desk and a legal aid fund for Nigerians in distress.

The committees were also tasked with collaborating with the Federal Government to design and publicise a comprehensive evacuation plan for Nigerians in volatile areas, including providing financial and logistical support for those willing to return home.