- Reps probe losses from xenophobic attacks in South Africa
- Lawmakers seek compensation for affected Nigerians
- Investigation report is expected in four weeks
The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the human and economic impact of repeated xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, with the aim of pursuing compensation for victims, strengthening diplomatic engagement and improving protection for Nigerians living abroad.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the decision followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State, Babajimi Benson, during plenary on Tuesday.
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Moving the motion, Benson said Nigeria had made significant diplomatic, political and financial contributions to South Africa’s liberation from apartheid, including advocacy at international organisations, funding relief initiatives, offering scholarships to South Africans and making economic sacrifices in support of the anti-apartheid struggle.
He expressed concern that despite those historic efforts, Nigerians legally residing in South Africa have continued to suffer repeated attacks over the past two decades.
According to him, the victims have faced killings, physical assaults, mob violence, looting, arson, destruction of businesses and homes, forced displacement, intimidation and hate campaigns directed at African migrants.
Benson recalled that major outbreaks of xenophobic violence occurred in 2008, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021, each triggering diplomatic tensions between both countries, emergency evacuations of Nigerians and assurances from South African authorities that such incidents would not recur.
He also raised concerns over the resurgence of anti-foreigner campaigns by groups such as Operation Dudula, saying their activities have heightened fear among Nigerian residents, forcing many to abandon their homes, businesses and investments while seeking evacuation.
The lawmaker noted that although previous National Assembly sessions had condemned the attacks and urged diplomatic action, no comprehensive investigation had been conducted to determine the number of Nigerians killed, injured or displaced or the full extent of economic losses suffered.
He argued that the absence of verified data had weakened Nigeria’s ability to negotiate effectively with South Africa and seek justice and compensation for affected citizens.
According to Benson, documenting the cumulative human, social and economic consequences of the attacks is essential for developing effective legislative measures and diplomatic strategies.
Following a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the House unanimously adopted the motion.
Lawmakers subsequently directed the House Committees on Integration and Cooperation in Africa and Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to investigate the casualties, losses and property damage suffered by Nigerians during previous and recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The committees were also tasked with compiling an inventory of abandoned properties belonging to Nigerians and recommending diplomatic initiatives, legal options and bilateral measures aimed at ensuring accountability for perpetrators, securing compensation for victims where appropriate and strengthening protection for Nigerians living in South Africa.
The committees are expected to present their findings to the House within four weeks for further legislative consideration.
Nigeria and South Africa share one of Africa’s strongest bilateral relationships through trade, diplomacy and regional cooperation. However, recurring xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians, have repeatedly strained ties between the two countries, with many victims and advocacy groups continuing to demand justice and compensation for their losses.
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