The House of Representatives has rejected a proposal urging Nigeria to sever diplomatic relations with South Africa over the recurring xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals.
The decision was reached during Thursday’s plenary after lawmakers debated a motion sponsored by the Chairman of the House Committee on Navy, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, who called for stronger action against the continued attacks on Nigerians living in the country.
The debate comes amid renewed reports of killings, assaults and intimidation of foreign nationals in South Africa, prompting the Nigerian government to continue evacuating citizens willing to return home.
Gagdi Condemns Attacks On Nigerians
While presenting the motion, Gagdi lamented that despite years of diplomatic engagement between both countries, Nigerians continue to face killings, unlawful arrests, destruction of businesses and widespread intimidation in South Africa.
He recalled Nigeria’s significant role in supporting South Africa’s liberation during the anti-apartheid struggle through financial assistance, diplomatic backing and humanitarian support.
According to him, it is painful that Nigerians now face persecution in a country whose freedom Nigeria helped secure.
The lawmaker argued that the repeated attacks and inflammatory comments allegedly made by some South African officials undermine the principles of African unity, regional integration and peaceful coexistence.
Gagdi urged the Federal Government to demand an independent, transparent and internationally monitored investigation into the deaths of Nigerians and other African victims, insisting that those responsible must be identified and prosecuted.
He also called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s bilateral relationship with South Africa and suggested that cooperation between both countries should be suspended where necessary.
Lawmakers Call For Tougher Measures
During the debate, Billy Osawaru (APC, Edo) accused South African security agencies of failing to protect Nigerians and blamed them for the recurring violence.
He said Nigeria must adopt a firmer position, arguing that the country should no longer appear powerless in defending its citizens abroad.
Osawaru proposed an amendment asking Nigeria to cut diplomatic ties with South Africa.
Also contributing, Kayode Moshood (APC, Lagos) recalled Nigeria’s financial support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid era, noting that the resources could have been invested in Nigeria’s own development.
Meanwhile, Okey-Joe Onuakalusi (NDC, Lagos) urged the Federal Government to compile the names of Nigerians killed during the attacks and present the cases before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
House Rejects Proposal To Sever Diplomatic Relations
After the debate, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu put Osawaru’s proposal to terminate diplomatic ties with South Africa to a voice vote.
The majority of lawmakers rejected the amendment.
Kalu noted that although Nigeria has the capacity to respond strongly, the country would continue to pursue diplomatic solutions rather than cutting ties with South Africa.
The House, however, maintained its support for stronger diplomatic engagement and greater protection for Nigerians living abroad while urging authorities to continue seeking justice for victims of the xenophobic attacks.
