Nigeria’s National Assembly has halted official visits to South Africa and withdrawn from legislative engagements organised by South African authorities, following renewed concerns over reported xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals.
The decision affects senators, members of the House of Representatives, committees, departments and other National Assembly officials and staff.
House of Representatives spokesman Akin Rotimi announced the development in a statement on Friday.
According to the statement, the directive was issued by the National Assembly leadership headed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen.
Attacks on Nigerians trigger action
The decision follows concerns over reports of violence, intimidation, killings, injuries and destruction of property involving Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
The National Assembly said it was particularly troubled by reports that some Nigerians had been displaced or forced to abandon their homes, businesses, investments and other property.
Lawmakers also expressed frustration that such incidents were reportedly continuing despite repeated appeals from the Nigerian government and other stakeholders for South African authorities to strengthen protection for foreign nationals.
They also called for those responsible for xenophobic violence to be brought to justice.
Online engagements also affected
The directive extends beyond physical trips to South Africa.
Nigerian lawmakers and National Assembly officials are also barred from participating in conferences, seminars, workshops, meetings, parliamentary exchanges and other programmes organised, sponsored or co-sponsored by South African legislative authorities.
Virtual and online engagements are included in the suspension.
Existing invitations and planned programmes involving South African legislative institutions are also expected to be reviewed.
However, participation may still be permitted where the leadership of the National Assembly gives express approval.
Suspension remains until further notice
Clerk to the National Assembly Kamoru Ogunlana said the measure followed consultations between the Senate and House leadership.
The National Assembly stressed that the decision should not be interpreted as Nigeria severing diplomatic relations with South Africa.
Instead, lawmakers said cooperation between both countries must be built on mutual respect and a commitment to protecting lives, property and lawful businesses.
The restriction will remain in force until further notice and may be reviewed depending on subsequent developments.
The move comes after the National Assembly earlier condemned renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa and supported diplomatic efforts aimed at protecting Nigerians in the country.
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