Reps Ask FG To Summon South African Envoy Over Attacks On Nigerians

The House of Representatives has asked the federal government to summon South Africa’s envoy and press Pretoria harder over attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals.

Lawmakers took the decision on Thursday after adopting a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Yusuf Gagdi of Plateau State.

The motion followed fresh concerns about xenophobic violence, unlawful arrests, destroyed businesses and reported deaths of Nigerians in South Africa. The House also observed a one-minute silence for Nigerians and other African nationals who have died in the attacks.

Gagdi urged the Nigerian government to protect citizens living in South Africa and review the country’s diplomatic engagement with Pretoria. Premium Times reported that some lawmakers pushed for stronger action, but the House did not adopt an immediate suspension of diplomatic relations.

Vanguard reported that the House called for stronger diplomatic engagement and asked the relevant committees to follow up on the safety of Nigerians in South Africa.

The resolution is a new legislative response to the South Africa crisis. It comes after earlier reports of attacks and evacuations, but this action centres on the House’s demand for diplomatic pressure.

Sources: Premium Times, Vanguard