Omanghana
Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended all official travel by lawmakers and legislative employees to South Africa in protest against recurring xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals.
The directive was issued by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, following consultations between the leadership of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Under the decision, lawmakers and parliamentary staff are prohibited from participating in official trips, committee visits, legislative exchanges, conferences and other events hosted or organized by South African institutions.
The boycott also covers virtual and online engagements organized by South African entities. State Houses of Assembly across Nigeria have been encouraged to introduce similar restrictions.
The directive will affect participation in upcoming international gatherings, including the 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference scheduled to take place in Cape Town.
According to the National Assembly, the measure was prompted by persistent reports of Nigerians being killed, injured, intimidated and displaced during anti-immigrant attacks in South Africa. Some victims have also allegedly been forced to abandon their businesses, properties and sources of livelihood.
Reports indicate that more than 1,600 Nigerians have been evacuated or repatriated from South Africa because of continuing threats to their safety.
The National Assembly described the suspension as a clear expression of protest rather than a permanent breakdown in diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
It said the restrictions would remain in place until South African authorities take verifiable measures to protect Nigerians and other foreign nationals, thoroughly investigate xenophobic attacks and prosecute those responsible.
The decision adds to longstanding concerns over the safety of African migrants in South Africa and increases pressure on the country’s government to address violence and discrimination against foreign nationals.
Source: Omanghana
