House of Representatives Calls for South African Envoy to Be Summoned Over Attacks on Nigerians
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to summon the South African High Commissioner to Nigeria over the reported killing of Nigerian citizens during renewed incidents of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
The lawmakers made the appeal amid growing concern over attacks targeting foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, in parts of South Africa. The House said the Nigerian government must take immediate diplomatic steps to seek explanations from South African authorities while ensuring that the lives and rights of Nigerian citizens are adequately protected.
During deliberations, members of the House expressed concern over recurring reports of violence against Nigerians living and working in South Africa. They noted that repeated incidents of killings, assaults and destruction of businesses belonging to Nigerians have continued to strain relations between the two countries and create fear among members of the Nigerian community abroad.
The lawmakers stated that the Federal Government has a constitutional responsibility to protect the interests of Nigerians, whether they reside within or outside the country. They argued that summoning the South African envoy would demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to defending its citizens and demanding accountability for attacks that have claimed innocent lives.
According to the House, diplomatic engagement should be pursued urgently to establish the facts surrounding the reported killings and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted in accordance with South African law. The lawmakers also stressed the importance of preventing future attacks through stronger cooperation between both governments.
The call by the House comes as reports of renewed xenophobic violence have sparked outrage across Nigeria. Several returnees have shared emotional accounts of intimidation, physical attacks and the loss of businesses and personal property, prompting fresh demands for stronger government intervention.
Lawmakers also urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to maintain close communication with Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa to monitor developments and provide assistance to citizens who may be affected by the crisis. They emphasized that the welfare and safety of Nigerians abroad should remain a top national priority.
The House further encouraged the Federal Government to strengthen consular support for Nigerians living overseas, particularly in countries where they may face security threats. Members argued that timely intervention and effective diplomatic engagement could help reduce tensions and provide reassurance to affected communities.
Political analysts believe the latest resolution reflects increasing public pressure on the government to respond firmly to recurring attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. They noted that diplomatic measures such as summoning an envoy are commonly used by governments to express concern and seek official clarification over issues affecting bilateral relations.
Human rights advocates have also called for decisive action against xenophobic violence, urging South African authorities to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice regardless of their status or affiliation. They stressed that protecting foreign nationals is a fundamental obligation under international human rights standards and domestic law.
Despite the tensions, lawmakers emphasized the importance of preserving the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and South Africa. They said both countries share strong diplomatic, economic and historical ties that should be strengthened through dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation rather than undermined by acts of violence against innocent people.
As the Federal Government considers the House’s resolution, attention will remain on the response of Nigerian and South African authorities. Many Nigerians hope that stronger diplomatic engagement will not only secure justice for victims but also contribute to improved protection for citizens living in South Africa and prevent similar incidents in the future.
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