House of Representatives urges stronger diplomatic measures as 282 Nigerians return home from South Africa amid renewed xenophobic violence

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to adopt stronger diplomatic measures against South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks, alleged extrajudicial killings and what lawmakers described as the systematic persecution of Nigerians and other African nationals living in the country.

Also read: Nigeria Consulate in Johannesburg condemns fresh xenophobic attacks on businesses, churches in South Africa

The resolution came on Thursday as 282 Nigerians, including 12 infants, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, aboard the fourth evacuation flight operated by Air Peace from South Africa.

According to a statement by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the evacuees landed in Lagos at about 7:30 p.m., marking the latest government-assisted return of Nigerians amid growing concerns over their safety.

The House adopted the resolution after unanimously approving a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Yusuf Gagdi, who represents the Kanke, Kanam and Pankshin Federal Constituency of Plateau State. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu presided over the plenary.

Moving the motion, Gagdi said Nigeria could no longer remain silent over the recurring South Africa attacks on Nigerians, despite years of diplomatic engagement between both countries.

“The House is aware that the Republic of South Africa has, over the years, witnessed repeated waves of xenophobic violence directed against Nigerians and other African nationals, resulting in the loss of innocent lives, destruction of businesses, unlawful arrests, forced displacement and widespread fear,” he said.

The lawmaker added that recent reports indicated a fresh escalation of attacks affecting Nigerians as well as citizens of Ghana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique and Malawi who were legally resident in South Africa.

Gagdi also cited reports that two Nigerians had recently been killed, including one who allegedly died in police custody and another who was attacked and killed outside his business premises.

“These tragic incidents have once again exposed Nigerians and other Africans to grave danger despite repeated diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and South Africa,” he said.

Recalling Nigeria’s leading role in the struggle against apartheid, Gagdi described the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa as deeply troubling.

“Nigeria was one of the foremost nations that stood firmly against apartheid through diplomatic leadership, huge financial support, humanitarian assistance and sustained political pressure that contributed immensely to the liberation of South Africa,” he said.

“It is, therefore, profoundly disturbing that Nigerians and other Africans now face persecution, humiliation and violent attacks in a country whose freedom they helped secure.”

He further criticised comments allegedly made by a South African junior minister, arguing that inflammatory public statements capable of inciting hostility against Nigerians were irresponsible and could worsen an already volatile security situation.

Several lawmakers supported the motion, urging the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic pressure on Pretoria.

Billy Osawaru, representing Edo State, expressed concern that repeated engagements had failed to halt the violence.

“Some measures must be taken to address this problem. We are worried that despite the engagement between our government and that of South Africa, the xenophobic attacks have continued, with the South African security architecture looking away,” he said.

Moshood Akiolu of Lagos State reminded colleagues of Nigeria’s contributions to ending apartheid, saying resources committed to South Africa’s liberation could have been used to address domestic needs.

He also urged the National Assembly to invite officials of the South African High Commission to explain measures being taken to safeguard Nigerians.

Ghali Tijjani of Kano advocated stronger diplomatic action, arguing that continued attacks should prompt a review of Nigeria’s relations with South Africa.

Meanwhile, Adebayo Adepoju of Oyo State called for international legal intervention and support for affected Nigerians seeking to rebuild their lives after losing businesses and livelihoods.

Following the debate, the House urged the Federal Government to summon the South African High Commissioner to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the recent killings and the South African government’s efforts to protect Nigerians and other African nationals.

Lawmakers also demanded an independent, transparent and internationally monitored investigation into the reported deaths, with those responsible to be identified, prosecuted and punished.

In addition, the House urged the Federal Government to engage the African Union, the Southern African Development Community, the United Nations and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to strengthen accountability and improve the protection of African migrants in South Africa.

The lawmakers further called for a review of bilateral relations with South Africa and recommended that aspects of cooperation be suspended or recalibrated until credible and verifiable guarantees are provided for the safety of Nigerians.

The House also urged the Federal Government to strengthen consular services, legal assistance, emergency evacuation arrangements and reintegration support for Nigerians choosing to return home.

An ad hoc committee was established to engage the South African Parliament, the South African Government, the African Union and other relevant institutions, investigate the recurring attacks and report its findings within 21 days.

Xenophobic violence has strained relations between Abuja and Pretoria for more than a decade.

Major outbreaks in 2008, 2015 and 2019 claimed numerous lives and destroyed businesses owned by foreign nationals, including Nigerians.

Although South African authorities have repeatedly condemned the attacks and pledged to improve protection for migrants, concerns have persisted over enforcement, accountability and the prosecution of perpetrators.

Also read: Evacuated Nigerians arrive in Lagos after South Africa xenophobic crisis

The latest parliamentary intervention reflects mounting pressure on both governments to move beyond diplomatic assurances and deliver concrete measures that guarantee the safety and rights of Nigerians living in South Africa.