Nigeria's House of Representatives has demanded a sweeping review of all bilateral agreements with South Africa, citing relentless xenophobic violence against Nigerian citizens.
Lawmakers adopted the resolutions during plenary on Tuesday. The motions came from Donald Ojogo and Billy Osawaru, both members of the chamber.
In two years, more than 118 Nigerians have been killed in South Africa, according to Osawaru's presentation. He noted that roughly one Nigerian dies there every week.
"About 200 plus foreigners have also been killed," the lawmaker told the chamber. "Nigerians rank among the primary targets of these attacks."
Osawaru expressed deep frustration with Pretoria's failure to act. Despite repeated diplomatic talks and government assurances, he said, terror continues unchecked.
"The South African security agencies have often protected the attackers, not the victims," he added. Such conduct, in his view, undermines Nigerian sovereignty and damages the nation's global standing.
Ojogo referenced two recent killings: Ekpenyong Andrew and Amaramiro Emmanuel. Both died in incidents tied to the escalating anti-foreigner climate gripping South Africa.
He called the violence an act of ingratitude. Nigeria played a crucial role in the struggle against apartheid, Ojogo reminded lawmakers.
"This trajectory is a recipe for anger and retaliation here at home," the representative warned. "South Africa must prevent further bloodshed."
The House now demands concrete action from Nigeria's Federal Government. Officials must summon South Africa's High Commissioner immediately to lodge formal complaints.
Abuja is to demand an immediate halt to all attacks on Nigerians. Pretoria must also provide time-bound guarantees ensuring the safety of Nigerian nationals.
Beyond diplomacy, the chamber backed targeted economic sanctions. New business permits for South African companies will be suspended temporarily.
Tax incentives currently enjoyed by established South African firms in Nigeria face review as well. These measures remain in place until South Africa demonstrates genuine reform.
The House wants evidence of prosecutions against perpetrators. It also expects meaningful compensation for victims and their families.
Two parliamentary committees have been tasked with urgent responsibilities. The Foreign Affairs and Diaspora committees must establish a 24-hour emergency response desk in Pretoria.
A legal aid fund for distressed Nigerians abroad will be created. The committees will coordinate with Nigeria's High Commission in South Africa.
A comprehensive evacuation plan is now mandatory. It must cover volatile provinces and include financial support for citizens wanting to return home.
The committees will also liaise with South Africa's parliament. Lawmakers hope to amplify pressure on Johannesburg through direct legislative engagement.
Trade and aviation treaties are now under formal review by the House. All bilateral frameworks with South Africa face potential renegotiation or suspension.
The resolutions reflect growing anger among Nigerian lawmakers over the violence. Citizens abroad deserve protection, they argue, or Nigeria must consider stronger retaliatory measures.
