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Nigeria’s parliament suspends engagements with South Africa over anti-migrant violence
Lawmakers said the boycott will stay in force until further notice as Nigeria urges South Africa to arrest suspects and stop attacks on Nigerians.
On Friday, The National Assembly suspended all official visits to South Africa and announced a boycott of South African-hosted or South African-organised legislative activities until further notice, citing continuing xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals.
Lawmakers expressed alarm over reports of violence, property destruction, and intimidation targeting Nigerians. Despite repeated appeals to the South African government to protect Nigerians and other African nationals and prosecute perpetrators, reports of such incidents have continued to emerge.
Clerk to the National Assembly Kamoru Ogunlana conveyed the decision in a statement from Abuja on Friday. The body described the move as "a strong expression of concern over the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerians living and conducting legitimate businesses in South Africa."
The National Assembly leadership further urged the 36 State Houses to consider adopting similar measures. They reaffirmed a commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens abroad while continuing to monitor the safety and welfare of Nigerians in South Africa.
Measures will remain in force until further notice and may be reviewed by The National Assembly leadership as circumstances warrant. The body stressed the decision is not aimed at undermining longstanding historical and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa.