By Kelvin Obambon
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong of Cross River South on Tuesday sponsored a motion calling for urgent intervention by South African authorities to halt recurring xenophobic attacks, intimidation and unlawful profiling of Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
Speaking on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday, Ekpenyong described the attacks as “deeply disappointing,” noting the long history of Nigerian support for South Africa during the apartheid era. “Nigeria stood firmly with South Africa during its darkest years,” he said, reminding lawmakers that Nigerians provided diplomatic, financial and moral support to the liberation struggle, campaigned for the release of Nelson Mandela and took bold economic steps in solidarity with the South African people.
Ekpenyong told colleagues that despite those ties, Nigerians – including those holding valid residence and work permits – continue to face threats, evictions, violence and the destruction of their businesses in South Africa. He contrasted that treatment with the ability of South African-origin businesses to operate lawfully in Nigeria.
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The Senate unanimously passed a resolution calling on the Federal Government to demand firm assurances from the South African Government that the attacks will be stopped and that Nigerians will be protected.
The upper chamber also urged the government to strengthen emergency consular support for affected Nigerians, pursue legal redress and compensation where appropriate, and engage the African Union to establish a lasting protection and accountability mechanism for nationals of African states.
Senator Ekpenyong said the measures are intended to provide immediate assistance to victims and to establish long-term safeguards against future incidents. He urged swift action by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in South Africa to implement the Senate’s directives.
The resolution intensifies diplomatic pressure on Pretoria as Nigeria seeks concrete assurances and remedies for its citizens affected by the spate of xenophobic incidents.
