Godswill Obot Akpabio has stated that Nigeria will not resort to economic retaliation against South Africa despite ongoing xenophobic attacks on Nigerian citizens.
Instead, he emphasized that diplomatic engagement remains the most appropriate approach in safeguarding the interests of both nations.
Speaking during Senate deliberations, Akpabio noted that punitive measures such as targeting foreign businesses would not be Nigeria’s preferred response.
His remarks came after Adams Oshiomhole proposed revoking the operational licenses of South African companies like MTN and DStv in retaliation for the attacks. However, the proposal was dismissed on procedural grounds.
Akpabio assured lawmakers that the Senate considers the reported attacks serious and will address the issue with urgency.
To tackle the situation, the Senate resolved to establish a joint ad hoc committee with the House of Representatives. The committee will conduct a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to South Africa aimed at identifying lasting solutions.
As part of its responsibilities, the delegation is expected to engage with the South African Parliament to formally communicate Nigeria’s concerns over the attacks.
The Senate also plans to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament and invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on diplomatic efforts and outcomes.
In addition, lawmakers endorsed a motion by Simon Lalong calling for a review of agreements reached during the 2019 bilateral meeting between Nigeria and South Africa, with the aim of ensuring their implementation.
The resolutions followed a motion of urgent national importance raised by Bassey, highlighting the rising xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana, and calling for immediate diplomatic and humanitarian action.
During the session, there was disagreement among senators over whether to move discussions behind closed doors after Adamu Aliero suggested it. However, Abdul Ningi and others opposed the idea, insisting on open deliberations.
Lawmakers expressed concern over not just physical violence but also the increasing fear, psychological distress, and dehumanization experienced by Nigerians abroad. They noted that many citizens are being unfairly targeted based on their nationality.
The Senate concluded by observing a minute of silence in honour of Nigerians who have lost their lives in the attacks.
