The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to review Nigeria’s 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 of Ondo State.
While presenting the motion, Ojogo described the attacks on Nigerians as alarming and alleged that citizens were being selectively targeted amid rising anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa. He cited the deaths of two Nigerians, identified as Ekpenyong Andrew and Amaramiro Emmanuel, in separate incidents linked to security operatives in the country.
According to the lawmaker, Andrew was reportedly arrested in Pretoria after an altercation with police officers before his body was later discovered in a mortuary, while Emmanuel allegedly died after being assaulted by personnel of the South African National Defence Force.
Ojogo said the attacks were unacceptable considering Nigeria’s contributions to the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, warning that the continued violence could trigger reprisals and diplomatic tension between both nations.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, also condemned the incidents, insisting that attacks on Nigerians anywhere in the world should not be tolerated.
Following the adoption of the motion through a voice vote, the lawmakers urged the Federal Government to review trade and aviation agreements with South Africa and consider targeted economic measures, including the suspension of business permits for new South African firms operating in Nigeria.
The House also directed its committees on foreign affairs and diaspora matters to work with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to establish a 24-hour emergency response desk and provide legal support for distressed Nigerians in South Africa.
Lawmakers further called for the development of an evacuation plan for Nigerians willing to return home from volatile areas in South Africa, with provisions for financial and logistical assistance.
