Nigeria’s National Assembly is set to dispatch a joint parliamentary delegation to South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in the country.
Senate President made this known while condemning the violence, describing the incidents as “barbaric” and unacceptable. He also criticised what he sees as a lack of decisive response from the South African government led by .
According to Akpabio, the Senate will collaborate with the House of Representatives to form a joint delegation that will engage directly with South Africa’s parliament. He stressed that Nigeria has a duty to protect its citizens both at home and abroad and cannot ignore repeated reports of attacks.
He emphasised that the safety, lives, and property of Nigerians remain a top priority, adding that the continued violence is intolerable. Expressing frustration, Akpabio noted that the absence of strong action from South African authorities has worsened concerns.
The development comes amid growing outrage from Nigerians and civil society groups over the recurring attacks. The (NANS) has also issued a strong warning to South Africa, threatening economic and nationwide student-led protests if the violence persists.
In a letter to South Africa’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Thamsanga Dennis Mseleku, NANS condemned what it described as systematic targeting of Nigerians. The group, led by its president, , said it represents over 40 million students and would no longer tolerate such incidents.
NANS further described the attacks as a betrayal of the long-standing Pan-African relationship between both countries, recalling Nigeria’s significant role in supporting South Africa during the struggle against apartheid.
The student body warned that continued inaction could trigger widespread protests and economic disruptions targeting South African interests in Nigeria.
