The leadership of Nigeria’s National Assembly, led by Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Rt Hon Abbas Tajudeen, directed the suspension of all official visits to South Africa and a boycott of legislative activities hosted or organised by South African authorities.
Clerk to the National Assembly Kamoru Ogunlana issued the formal communication after consultations between the two chambers.
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The directive applies to senators, members of the House, committees, officials and staff. It covers physical and virtual conferences, seminars, workshops, parliamentary exchanges and related engagements until further notice.
The decision stems from grave concern over recurring xenophobic attacks, violence, intimidation and destruction of property directed at Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
Reports indicate that citizens have been killed, injured, displaced and forced to abandon businesses, investments, homes and other assets.
These incidents have continued despite repeated appeals by the Federal Government of Nigeria and other stakeholders for decisive protective measures and justice for victims.
Nigerian authorities have already facilitated the repatriation of approximately 1,490 citizens amid the unrest. Official figures earlier recorded at least 98 Nigerians killed in such attacks since 2022.
In the statement, the leadership stressed: “The Leadership is particularly concerned by reports of Nigerians being killed, injured, displaced and forced to abandon their businesses, investments, homes and other properties as a result of recurring violent attacks.”
The National Assembly made clear that the suspension does not seek to undermine the longstanding historical, diplomatic and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Rather, it reflects a firm expression of concern for the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.
Parliamentary diplomacy, the leadership noted, must rest on mutual respect and a shared commitment to protecting life, property and lawful enterprise.
The measure remains in force until further notice and may be reviewed by the leadership as circumstances develop.
Existing invitations and arrangements involving South African legislative bodies are to be examined in line with the directive.
No official participation is permitted without prior express approval from the National Assembly leadership.
This latest step follows earlier condemnations by both chambers this year and builds on federal efforts to assist affected citizens.
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The National Assembly has called on the South African government to take urgent and concrete steps to protect foreign nationals, thoroughly investigate reported incidents, arrest suspects and ensure those found culpable face prosecution.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
