Nigeria’s Senate has condemned a wave of xenophobic attacks against its citizens in South Africa and announced it will send a high-level delegation to address the situation.
The delegation will be led by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, following a debate by lawmakers on Tuesday.
During the session, senators described the attacks as “barbaric, unlawful and inconsistent with African brotherhood”, warning of their growing impact on Nigerians living abroad.
The move follows a motion raised by Senator Osita Izunaso, who told the chamber that many Nigerians in South Africa were living in “fear, humiliation and psychological trauma”.
“Nigerians are increasingly profiled and treated as though being a Nigerian national alone constitutes an offence,” he said.
Despite rising tensions, the Senate rejected calls to revoke the operating licences of South African companies, including MTN Group and MultiChoice Group, describing such action as unjustified.
Lawmakers noted that South African authorities had acknowledged the incidents and pledged to restore order, which they said underscored the seriousness of the situation.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Victor Umeh highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in supporting South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.
“Nigerians stood at the forefront, sacrificing resources and goodwill for the liberation and dignity of South Africans,” he said.
The Senate said the attacks violate international human rights principles and regional agreements, including those of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union.
“These attacks offend the conscience of civilised nations,” the chamber said.
“No individual is above the law, and no citizen is beneath its protection.”
Lawmakers warned that continued violence could strain diplomatic relations and undermine regional stability if not addressed.
They called on the Nigerian government to initiate high-level diplomatic engagement with South Africa and ensure stronger protection for Nigerians abroad.
The Senate also urged a full and independent investigation into the attacks.
“Perpetrators and their sponsors must be identified, arrested, prosecuted and punished,” lawmakers said.
A Senate committee on diaspora and foreign affairs has been mandated to conduct a fact-finding mission and report back.
“The safety and dignity of Nigerians abroad remain non-negotiable,” the Senate said, calling for urgent action to end what it described as a cycle of violence and impunity.
