By Our National Assembly Correspondent
ABUJA – A heated debate erupted in the Senate on Tuesday as Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi called on the Federal Government to suspend diplomatic relations with South Africa, citing recurring xenophobic attacks and the continued killing of Nigerians residing in the country.
Speaking during plenary, the lawmaker expressed deep concern over what he described as the persistent targeting of Nigerian citizens in South Africa despite years of diplomatic engagement and bilateral cooperation between the two African nations.
Senator Ningi argued that Nigeria could no longer afford to remain passive while its citizens continued to face violent attacks, intimidation and loss of lives abroad. He maintained that the Federal Government should adopt stronger diplomatic measures, including a temporary suspension of relations, to compel South African authorities to decisively address the recurring incidents.
According to him, repeated assurances by the South African government have failed to translate into adequate protection for Nigerians living and conducting legitimate businesses in the country.
The senator urged the Senate to take a firm stand in defence of Nigerians, insisting that the lives and safety of citizens must remain a top priority in Nigeria’s foreign policy.
He also called on the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic pressure on Pretoria through regional and international platforms, while demanding justice for victims of xenophobic violence and adequate compensation for affected families.
The renewed call comes amid growing public outrage over reports of fresh attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, reviving concerns about the safety of foreign nationals and the effectiveness of measures put in place to curb xenophobic violence.
Observers say Senator Ningi’s position reflects mounting frustration over repeated attacks that have strained relations between Africa’s two largest economies and sparked renewed demands for stronger government action to protect Nigerian citizens abroad.
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