Xenophobia: Senate pushes sanctions against S’Africa, orders probe

Nigeria's Senate is threatening to review diplomatic relations with South Africa if renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians persist, with lawmakers condemning the reported targeting of citizens and businesses. The Senate's resolution followed a motion highlighting a June 30, 2026, ultimatum allegedly issued to Nigerians residing in South Africa, which was described as a grave threat to their safety and livelihoods.

This development comes amid recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has historically resulted in the deaths of Nigerians, destruction of businesses, and significant strain on diplomatic ties between the two nations. During a plenary session, senators urged the federal government to secure firm guarantees from South African authorities for the protection of Nigerians and to engage in decisive diplomatic dialogue to prevent future occurrences.

“

We cannot continue to fold our arms while Nigerians are being killed and their businesses looted. This is the starting point for a very robust engagement. I suggest we sever all diplomatic relations with South Africa.

Some senators advocated for a tougher stance. Salihu Mustapha from Kwara Central stated, "We cannot continue to fold our arms while Nigerians are being killed and their businesses looted. I suggest we sever all diplomatic relations with South Africa." However, the Senate ultimately adopted a more measured approach.

Former Senate Leader Yahaya Abdullahi cautioned against viewing the attacks in isolation, suggesting they could be part of a broader political strategy. "There is an attempt from the right wing of the white South Africans and now coming up from the black ones to delegitimise the government as quickly as possible," he argued, advising careful consideration of this potential conspiracy. The lawmaker also lamented the poor funding of Nigeria's foreign missions, which he believes weakens the country's ability to protect its citizens abroad.

“

This is a coordinated effort to destabilise the government of South Africa and to remove the ruling party, the ANC, from office. There is an attempt from the right wing of the white South Africans and now coming up from the black ones to delegitimise the government as quickly as possible. We should tread with great caution and carefully consider this conspiracy.