The National Assembly has reportedly suspended all official legislative visits to South Africa and directed lawmakers to boycott legislative activities hosted or organised by the country over renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals.
The decision followed a fresh wave of anti-immigrant protests, violence and intimidation in South Africa, with concerns growing over the safety of Nigerians living in the country.
According to a statement reportedly signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, on Thursday, the joint leadership of the Senate and House of Representatives ordered the suspension of all official visits to South Africa and the boycott of South African-hosted or organised legislative engagements until further notice.
The National Assembly said the decision was driven by concern over the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.
It also urged the South African government to take urgent measures to protect Nigerians and other African nationals, investigate reported attacks, arrest suspects and prosecute those found responsible.
The suspension and boycott will remain in effect until further notice and may be reviewed by the leadership of the National Assembly depending on developments.
The renewed violence has heightened concerns over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa, where previous waves of xenophobic attacks in 2008, 2015 and 2019 resulted in deaths, injuries and destruction of Nigerian-owned businesses.
The Federal Government has also condemned the latest attacks and taken steps to evacuate Nigerians willing to return home, while engaging South African authorities over the safety of its citizens.
Nigerian lawmakers have previously called for stronger measures to protect Nigerians in South Africa, including investigations into attacks and compensation or justice for victims who suffered losses.
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