Nigerian lawmakers demand audit of xenophobia-related losses in South Africa

Nigeria's House of Representatives has resolved to launch a comprehensive investigation into the human and economic toll exacted upon Nigerians by persistent xenophobic violence in South Africa. The decision stems from years of killings, destruction of businesses, forced displacement, and escalating anti-foreigner sentiment targeting African migrants.

Lawmaker Babajimi Benson, who sponsored the motion, highlighted Nigeria's significant historical role in South Africa's anti-apartheid struggle. He recalled Nigeria's diplomatic, financial, and political support, including championing South Africa's cause at the UN and OAU, establishing a relief fund, and offering scholarships. Despite this deep historical connection, Benson noted that Nigerians lawfully residing in South Africa have endured nearly two decades of recurrent xenophobic attacks.

These attacks have manifested as killings, mob violence, looting, arson, property destruction, intimidation, and hate campaigns primarily directed at African migrants. Benson cited major outbreaks in 2008, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021, each straining diplomatic ties and prompting assurances from the South African government that have yet to prevent recurrence.

The lawmaker expressed alarm over a recent resurgence of coordinated anti-foreigner campaigns, fueled by inflammatory rhetoric from groups like Operation Dudula. He stated these campaigns have instilled widespread fear, compelling many Nigerians to abandon homes, businesses, and investments while seeking emergency evacuation after receiving threats and ultimatums.

The resolution underscores a growing frustration within Nigeria over the perceived lack of effective measures by South Africa to protect foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, despite their country's historical solidarity. The investigation seeks to quantify these losses and pressure South Africa to implement lasting solutions.

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Notwithstanding this historic relationship, Nigerians residing lawfully in the Republic of South Africa have, for nearly two decades, remained recurrent targets of xenophobic violence characterised by killings, mob attacks, physical assaults, arson, looting of businesses, destruction of properties, forced displacement, intimidation and hate campaigns principally directed at African migrants.