Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended official trips to South Africa and announced a boycott of legislative engagements hosted or organized by the country until further notice.
The decision comes amid renewed concerns over reports of xenophobic violence targeting Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
The leadership of the federal legislature said the move was prompted by continuing reports of attacks, intimidation, destruction of property and other forms of hostility against Nigerians in the southern African country.
According to the Assembly, some Nigerians have reportedly lost their lives or sustained injuries during the attacks, while others have been forced to abandon their businesses, homes, investments and other belongings.
The position of the legislature was contained in a statement signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana.
The Assembly expressed concern that repeated appeals by the Nigerian government and other stakeholders for stronger protection of Nigerians and other foreign nationals had not stopped reports of xenophobic incidents.
It said the suspension of official visits and participation in South African-organized legislative programmes would remain in effect until further notice.
The development comes as Nigeria continues diplomatic efforts to address attacks against its citizens in South Africa.
The Federal Government has also been facilitating the return of Nigerians affected by the violence. In a related development, the government recently acknowledged financial support from the Redeemed Christian Church of God towards the evacuation of distressed Nigerians.
The National Assembly’s latest action further signals growing concern in Nigeria over the safety and welfare of its citizens in South Africa, as pressure mounts for stronger measures to curb xenophobia and protect foreign nationals.
