The National Assembly has suspended all official visits to South Africa and ordered a boycott of legislative activities hosted or organised by the country over recurring reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals.
The decision followed consultations between the leadership of the Senate and the House of Representatives, according to a statement signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, on Friday.
The National Assembly said it was concerned by reports of violence, intimidation, destruction of property and other forms of hostility against Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
It expressed particular concern over reports of Nigerians being killed, injured, displaced or forced to abandon their businesses, investments, homes and other properties following the attacks.
The lawmakers noted that despite repeated appeals by the Nigerian government and other stakeholders for South African authorities to protect Nigerians and other foreign nationals and prosecute those responsible, reports of xenophobic incidents had continued.
The statement said the boycott would remain in place “until further notice” and cover official visits by lawmakers, National Assembly committees, officials and staff.
It would also apply to conferences, seminars, workshops, parliamentary meetings, legislative exchanges and other programmes organised or hosted by South African legislative authorities, including virtual engagements.
The National Assembly leadership directed the Clerk to communicate the decision to senators, members of the House of Representatives, committees, departments, directorates and staff for strict compliance.
However, the lawmakers clarified that the decision was not intended to undermine Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic, historical and people-to-people ties with South Africa.
Instead, they described it as “a strong expression of concern over the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerians living and conducting legitimate businesses in South Africa.”
The National Assembly called on the South African government to take urgent measures to protect Nigerians and other African nationals in the country and prevent further xenophobic attacks.
It also urged the authorities to thoroughly investigate reported incidents, arrest suspected perpetrators and prosecute those found culpable.
The lawmakers further called on the leadership of the 36 State Houses of Assembly to take note of the resolution and consider adopting similar measures.
The National Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and said it would continue to monitor developments concerning the safety and welfare of Nigerians in South Africa.
The suspension and boycott will remain in force until further notice and may be reviewed by the National Assembly leadership depending on developments.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
What do you think about this?
Drop your opinion in the comment section.
FOLLOW US & Share this with someone who needs to see this.
