Nigeria's Reps Launch Major Probe into South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

The Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the substantial losses, damages, and casualties endured by Nigerian citizens due to recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa. This significant resolution emerged from a motion sponsored by Hon. Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, who emphasized the urgent need for parliamentary intervention given the gravity and historical context of these incidents.

Hon. Benson highlighted Nigeria's profound historical contributions to South Africa's liberation from apartheid. Nigeria dedicated immense diplomatic, financial, and political resources to this cause, including sustained advocacy at international bodies such as the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and the Organisation of African Unity. Furthermore, Nigeria established the Southern African Relief Fund, provided educational scholarships for South Africans, and imposed economic sacrifices on its own citizens to support the struggle for freedom. Despite this deep-rooted historical relationship, Nigerians residing lawfully in South Africa have consistently been targets of xenophobic violence for nearly two decades.

These attacks have been characterized by killings, mob assaults, physical violence, arson, looting of businesses, widespread property destruction, forced displacement, intimidation, and hate campaigns predominantly directed at African migrants. Significant outbreaks of xenophobic violence were recorded in 2008, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and multiple times thereafter. Each incident led to renewed diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and South Africa, necessitating emergency evacuations of Nigerian citizens and repeated assurances from the South African Government regarding the implementation of preventive measures.

The House is acutely aware of the recent surge in coordinated anti-foreigner campaigns and inflammatory rhetoric propagated by groups like Operation Dudula and similar organizations. This has instilled widespread fear among Nigerian residents, leading many to abandon their homes, businesses, and investments. Many are actively seeking emergency evacuation following explicit threats and unlawful ultimatums issued against foreign African nationals.

Previous sessions of the National Assembly have repeatedly debated motions condemning xenophobic attacks, expressed sympathy for victims, and urged diplomatic engagement between both governments. However, as noted by the Lagos lawmaker, none of these efforts have culminated in a comprehensive legislative inquiry to definitively establish the actual number of Nigerians killed, injured, or displaced, nor to quantify the aggregate economic losses suffered by Nigerian citizens over the years. This lack of institutional documentation has deprived the Federal Government and the National Assembly of an authoritative evidential basis for effective policy formulation, legislative intervention, and sustained diplomatic negotiations.

Hon. Benson stressed that a comprehensive legislative inquiry is now imperative, not only to establish responsibility for the most recent attacks but also to document the cumulative human, economic, and social consequences of xenophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa. The ultimate goal is to recommend enduring legislative, diplomatic, and institutional solutions, as well as robust protection and reparation mechanisms for Nigerians in the diaspora.

Adding to the debate, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation and accountability for all culpable parties. Hon. Paschal Agbodike advocated for adequate compensation for Nigerians repatriated from South Africa, acknowledging the profound financial and psychological trauma suffered by the victims.

Following the extensive debate, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen referred the motion to a joint committee comprising the Committees on Integration in Africa, Diaspora, Nigeria–South Africa Friendship Group, and Foreign Affairs. This joint committee has been mandated to meticulously investigate the losses, damages, and casualties suffered by Nigerians and to take inventory of properties abandoned as a result of both previous and recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Their findings will inform further legislative action. Additionally, the committee is tasked with recommending appropriate diplomatic initiatives, legal mechanisms, and bilateral engagements to ensure accountability for perpetrators, enhance the protection of Nigerian residents in South Africa, and ensure the effective implementation of relevant international human rights obligations. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks.