Nigeria's Senate has decided to create a joint committee with the House of Representatives to tackle xenophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa.
Leadership of the National Assembly will head the proposed committee. It plans to visit South Africa for fact-finding and diplomatic engagement.
Lawmakers intend to meet directly with South African Parliament members. They'll formally express Nigeria's anger over the attacks on its citizens.
Nigeria's Foreign Affairs Minister will also brief the Senate on current diplomatic efforts. Officials say talks with South Africa's Speaker are already planned.
Senator Bassey sponsored the urgent motion that prompted the resolution. His proposal highlighted xenophobic persecution in both South Africa and Ghana.
During debate, senators voiced alarm over rising violence and discrimination. "We're not just facing physical attacks but profiling and dehumanisation too," one lawmaker noted.
Psychological trauma has become a serious concern for Nigerians abroad. Legislators emphasized the need to protect citizens' dignity and safety.
Earlier bilateral agreements between the two nations from 2019 came up in discussion. Senator Simon Lalong pushed for full implementation of those deals.
He warned that ignoring these agreements could lead to further escalation. The Senate backed his call to revive enforcement mechanisms.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole proposed revoking licences of South African companies like MTN and DStv. The chamber rejected his proposal on procedural grounds.
Senate President stressed that diplomacy matters more than economic punishment. "Our response must prioritise diplomatic engagement rather than punitive economic measures," he said.
He promised the Senate would handle the matter with speed and seriousness. Lawmakers showed commitment to resolving the crisis through proper channels.
A brief dispute erupted over whether discussions should happen behind closed doors. Senator Aliero proposed a closed session for debate.
Senator Ningi opposed the idea strongly. Others joined him in demanding transparency throughout the process.
The chamber observed a minute's silence for Nigerians killed in xenophobic violence. This gesture honoured victims of the ongoing crisis.
