Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended all official visits to South Africa and ordered lawmakers to boycott legislative activities hosted by South African authorities. The decision follows growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other African migrants in the country amid reports of xenophobic attacks. Lawmakers have called for the protection of Nigerian citizens and the prosecution of those responsible for the violence.
The suspension comes after two Nigerians were killed in South Africa, raising the death toll to seven. Fani-Kayode, a former Nigerian minister, has warned the South African government that continued discrimination and attacks could lead to serious consequences. He expressed shock at the reported murders and condemned the hostile environment faced by Nigerian nationals.
South Africa has also faced criticism for its role in the alleged extradition of six Nigerians to the U.S. Over a romance scam. While this is a separate issue, it has added to the tensions between the two nations. The National Assembly has not yet commented on the extradition matter, focusing instead on the immediate safety of its citizens in South Africa.
The situation highlights the deepening diplomatic strain between Nigeria and South Africa, with both sides struggling to address the root causes of xenophobia and crime.
