Xenophobic Attacks: Senate Rules Out Nationalisation of MTN, DStv, Seeks Greater Protection for Nigerians

The Senate has declined calls for the Federal Government to take over South African-owned businesses such as MTN and DStv in retaliation for the latest xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, opting instead to pursue diplomatic and legal measures.

The decision came during plenary after lawmakers debated a motion on the recurring attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. While condemning the violence, senators resolved that Nigeria should strengthen diplomatic engagement rather than adopt retaliatory economic actions.

Among its resolutions, the Senate urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to enhance emergency consular services, document victims of the attacks and seek justice, restitution and compensation for Nigerians who suffered deaths, injuries, displacement and destruction of businesses.

During deliberations, Senator Adams Oshiomhole argued that Nigeria should consider appropriating the profits of South African firms operating in the country if Pretoria failed to compensate victims of the attacks.

“The ultimatum reportedly given to Nigerians to leave by June 30 was enforced by mobs while the South African government appeared unable to protect innocent people. We cannot allow Nigerians to suffer such losses and then use Nigerian taxpayers’ money to compensate them while South African businesses continue to make profits here,” he said.

Responding, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin acknowledged the seriousness of the attacks but urged restraint, saying the Senate should await the findings of its Foreign Affairs Committee before making far-reaching decisions.

“For now, I appeal that we allow the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs… to complete its investigation before we take further decisions. Let the committee do its work and submit its findings,” Jibrin said.

The Senate thereafter mandated the committee to submit its report within two weeks, reaffirming that while the attacks on Nigerians were unacceptable, any further action should be based on verified findings and a coordinated national response.

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