NIGERIA PERSPECTIVE

Abuja, July 9, 2026. In the Nigerian Senate, tensions rose this week over the wave of xenophobic violence targeting Nigerian nationals in South Africa. A motion introduced by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong revived the debate on the June 30, 2026, ultimatum issued by South African self-defense groups demanding the departure of undocumented foreigners. Senator Salihu Mustapha (Kwara Central) called for a drastic measure: "We cannot continue to fold our arms while Nigerians are being killed and their businesses looted. I propose that we sever all diplomatic ties with South Africa." However, former Majority Leader Yahaya Abdullahi cautioned against hasty action, citing a possible political agenda aimed at destabilizing the South African government and recalling Nigeria's historical commitment to the anti-apartheid struggle.

The upper chamber ultimately opted for a more measured approach: it rejected calls to nationalize South African subsidiaries MTN and DStv, while demanding written guarantees from the federal government that Pretoria would ensure the safety of Nigerians and arrest those responsible for the violence, looting, and intimidation. Senator Adams Oshiomhole proposed seizing the profits of South African companies, including IBTC Bank, to compensate victims, after South African Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni ruled out official compensation, citing the informal status of many destroyed businesses.

On the ground, the federal government continues its evacuation efforts: a fourth Air Peace flight, carrying 270 nationals, was scheduled to arrive at Lagos's Murtala Muhammed Airport on Wednesday at 5 am, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The crisis is already affecting more than just bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Africa: Ghana has postponed the state visit of President Cyril Ramaphosa, initially scheduled for August, citing the risk that tensions could overshadow the planned bilateral agenda between Accra and Pretoria.