The Senate on Tuesday warned that Nigeria could review its diplomatic relations with South Africa if renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians persist, as lawmakers condemned the reported targeting of Nigerian citizens and businesses.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong, who drew the attention of the Senate to the June 30, 2026, ultimatum allegedly issued to Nigerians residing in South Africa, describing it as a grave threat to their safety and livelihoods.
The development comes amid renewed concerns over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which over the years have claimed the lives of several Nigerians, destroyed businesses and repeatedly strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
During plenary, senators called on the Federal Government to obtain firm guarantees from the South African authorities for the protection of Nigerians and urged sustained diplomatic engagement to prevent a recurrence.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Salihu Mustapha (Kwara Central) called for a tougher response from the Federal Government.
“We cannot continue to fold our arms while Nigerians are being killed and their businesses looted,” he said.
“This is the starting point for a very robust engagement. I suggest we sever all diplomatic relations with South Africa.”
Copyright © 2020 Totorinews.com All rights reserved. The information contained in Totorinews.com may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without giving due credit to Totorinews.com as the source.
