The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday witnessed a heated debate over the recurring xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, with Senator Adams Oshiomhole calling for firm economic retaliation against South African businesses operating in Nigeria.
Speaking during plenary, the Edo North senator delivered a passionate address that drew heavily on Nigeria’s historical role in the fight against apartheid, arguing that the country’s sacrifices for South Africa’s liberation have not been adequately reciprocated.
Oshiomhole recalled Nigeria’s firm stance during the apartheid era, noting that successive governments, including that of former Head of State Murtala Mohammed, took bold diplomatic and economic positions in support of South Africa’s freedom struggle.
He said Nigeria once even considered far-reaching economic actions against countries perceived to be supporting apartheid, stressing that such decisions reflected the nation’s commitment to African solidarity.
According to him, Nigeria’s foreign policy at the time was guided by principle, even when it came at significant economic and diplomatic cost.
The senator expressed concern that decades later, Nigerians living in South Africa continue to face discrimination, violence, and in some cases, deadly attacks.
He lamented what he described as a lack of reciprocity in relations between both countries, saying Nigeria’s contributions to African unity appear to be overlooked.
“I didn’t come to the Senate to lament, but there is a principle in diplomacy—reciprocity,” he said, adding that Nigeria must reconsider its current posture.
Oshiomhole also pointed to internal political rhetoric in South Africa, particularly comments linking unemployment challenges to foreign nationals, as a factor worsening tensions.
Despite this, he defended Nigerians living in South Africa, describing them as hardworking individuals engaged in legitimate economic activities such as trade and skilled labour.
“These Nigerians are not there on holiday; they are there to work and earn a living,” he said.
In a more controversial proposal, Oshiomhole urged the Senate to consider economic countermeasures, specifically calling for action against MTN Group, a major South African telecoms company operating in Nigeria.
He argued that Nigeria should not hesitate to protect its interests, even if it means reconsidering the presence of foreign companies.
“It is time to reciprocate. Nigeria should consider its options, including taking a hard look at MTN and its operations here,” he said.
While no formal resolution was reached during the session, the senator’s remarks sparked intense reactions among lawmakers and are expected to shape further debate on Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic response to xenophobic violence.
The Senate is expected to continue deliberations in the coming days as it weighs diplomatic engagement against growing calls for tougher retaliatory measures to protect Nigerian citizens abroad.
