The Federal Government has indicated that any retaliatory steps Nigeria may eventually take against South Africa over the recurring attacks and harassment of Nigerians and other African migrants would involve the National Assembly as part of its constitutional responsibilities.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this during an interview on TVC, explaining that the Federal Government is currently pursuing diplomatic engagements with South African authorities but noted that lawmakers could become involved should the situation continue.
According to the minister, Nigeria has exercised restraint despite mounting concerns over the treatment of its citizens residing in South Africa.
She said caution remained necessary in handling such sensitive issues, but stressed that the persistent harassment of Nigerians, many of whom have lived in South Africa for years and established families there, had become a matter of serious concern.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu revealed that some Nigerians, including those married to South Africans, are allegedly being pressured to leave the country along with their spouses and children who have spent most of their lives in South Africa.
She contrasted the experiences of Nigerians in South Africa with the favourable environment enjoyed by South African businesses operating in Nigeria.
The minister noted that more than 120 South African companies currently do business in Nigeria, adding that their employees are not subjected to identity checks or intimidation and that their businesses continue to operate without interference.
She said the continued targeting of Nigerians and other foreign nationals could compel Nigeria to reassess its available options.
Among the major South African firms with operations in Nigeria are MTN, MultiChoice, Stanbic and Protea. Odumegwu-Ojukwu warned that the attacks are harming South Africa’s reputation and undermining the Pan-African ideals championed by the late Nelson Mandela.
She said Mandela dedicated nearly three decades of his life to building an image of South Africa as a symbol of African unity, adding that anti-migrant groups have damaged that legacy through their actions.
According to the minister, the negative impact of the violence is already being felt, with reports of cancelled concerts and conferences as South Africa increasingly faces criticism over allegations of xenophobia.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also faulted the response of the South African government, arguing that authorities have not done enough despite repeated reports of violence against migrants.
Recent incidents have reportedly affected citizens of several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi and Zimbabwe. Vigilante groups are said to have targeted foreign nationals by attacking homes, looting businesses and forcing migrants out of some communities. Some victims have reportedly lost their lives during the violence.
The minister also spoke on the fate of 98 Nigerians currently serving prison terms in Ethiopia. She disclosed that arrangements are in progress for their transfer to Nigeria under an existing bilateral agreement between both countries.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated that the inmates come from different regions of the country, including the South-East, South-South and South-West, stressing that criminal activities should not be linked to any ethnic or regional group.
She explained that once transferred, the prisoners would complete their sentences in Nigeria in accordance with the agreement signed between Abuja and Addis Ababa.
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