The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has ruled out any form of economic retaliation against South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians.
Akpabio made the position known while responding to a proposal by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who had suggested that Nigeria should consider suspending the operational licences of South African-owned companies such as MTN and DStv as a countermeasure.
However, the Senate President firmly stated that Nigeria would not adopt retaliatory economic actions, stressing that diplomacy remains the most effective path to resolving the recurring tensions between both countries.
He explained that while the reported attacks on Nigerians in South Africa are deeply concerning and unacceptable, targeting businesses operating in Nigeria would not serve the national interest or promote lasting peace.
According to him, the Senate is treating the issue with urgency and is committed to ensuring a constructive and diplomatic resolution.
As part of its response, the Senate resolved to set up a joint ad hoc committee involving members of both the Senate and House of Representatives to investigate the incidents and engage South African authorities.
The committee, to be led by the leadership of the National Assembly, will embark on a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to South Africa. It is also expected to meet with the South African Parliament to formally express Nigeria’s concerns over the attacks.
In addition, the Senate plans to send a formal letter to the Speaker of the South African Parliament and invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on progress made in diplomatic engagements.
The upper chamber also endorsed a motion sponsored by Senator Simon Lalong calling for a review of past bilateral agreements between Nigeria and South Africa, particularly resolutions reached in 2019, to ensure proper implementation and prevent further incidents.
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