Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended all official legislative visits to South Africa and directed lawmakers to boycott South African-hosted activities over renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals.
The decision was contained in a statement signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, on Thursday, following reports of renewed violence, intimidation and anti-immigrant protests in South Africa.
The joint leadership of the Senate and House of Representatives said the suspension covered “all official visits” to South Africa and “South African-hosted or South African-organised legislative activities and engagements” until further notice.
The lawmakers said the decision reflected their “grave concern for the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.”
The National Assembly called on the South African government to take “urgent and concrete measures” to protect Nigerians and other African nationals, investigate reported attacks, arrest suspects and prosecute those found responsible.
The suspension will remain in force until further notice and may be reviewed by the National Assembly leadership depending on developments.
The move comes amid a wider diplomatic response by Nigeria to renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The Federal Government has condemned the violence, begun arrangements for the evacuation of Nigerians and engaged South African officials over the safety of its citizens.
The National Assembly had earlier condemned attacks on Nigerians and called for stronger diplomatic measures, including protection for Nigerians willing to leave South Africa.
Reports indicate that about 1,490 Nigerians have been repatriated amid the latest unrest, while previous waves of xenophobic violence have also targeted Nigerian-owned businesses and resulted in deaths and injuries.
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