By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
DELIBERATIONS ON alleged xenophobic attacks against Nigerians abroad have led the Senate to approve a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to South Africa.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that lawmakers resolved to constitute a joint ad hoc committee of the National Assembly (NASS) to investigate rising cases of attacks, violence and profiling involving Nigerians in South Africa and parts of Ghana.
The proposed delegation, to be led by the Chairman of the National Assembly (NASS), is expected to engage with the South African Parliament and convey Nigeria’s position.
The Senate also agreed to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament ahead of the visit.
As part of its resolutions, the Senate will invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on steps taken and expected outcomes from diplomatic engagements.
The upper chamber called for a comprehensive review of resolutions reached during the 2019 Nigeria South Africa bilateral meeting, stressing full implementation to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. The position followed a motion raised by Simon Lalong.
Lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent national importance on xenophobic persecution of Nigerians abroad, drawing attention to reported cases in South Africa and Ghana.
Presiding over the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said diplomatic engagement remains the preferred approach.
A proposal seeking revocation of operational licences of South African companies including MTN and DSTV was not adopted on procedural grounds after being raised by Adams Oshiomhole.
Also, JKNewsMedia.com reports that during the debate, some lawmakers called for sanctions and a review of business ties with South African firms operating in Nigeria, including telecommunications company MTN and pay television operator DSTV.
“The safety and dignity of Nigerians abroad must be defended through concrete actions,” one senator said.
Other lawmakers cautioned against retaliatory economic measures, warning of possible consequences for Nigerian workers and consumers.
The Senate urged the Federal Government to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels and ensure protection and compensation for affected Nigerians.
Lawmakers also requested a detailed report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the incidents and the government’s response.
Meanwhile, the Senate observed a minute’s silence in honour of Nigerians who lost their lives in the attacks.
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