In response to renewed xenophobic violence in South Africa, the Nigerian Senate has initiated diplomatic measures to protect Nigerians abroad.
The Senate on Tuesday resolved to send a delegation of lawmakers to South Africa as part of efforts to address the ongoing attacks and killings.
The decision followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Aniekan Bassey, condemning the violence. Lawmakers agreed that the delegation would be a joint committee of both chambers of the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The team is expected to engage with the South African government and parliament to seek a lasting solution, although no timeline was given for the visit. This comes as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, is already in South Africa for diplomatic talks, with the government also considering the possible evacuation of affected citizens.
During the debate, some lawmakers, including Adams Oshiomhole, called for tougher measures against South African businesses in Nigeria, while others urged continued diplomatic engagement.
In his remarks, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, ruled out retaliatory actions, stressing that the National Assembly would prioritise diplomacy and international engagement to resolve the crisis.
