Senator urges economic retaliation as Senate debates attacks on Nigerians abroad
Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on the Federal Government to consider strong economic measures against South African companies operating in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.
Speaking during plenary at the National Assembly, the former Edo State governor urged authorities to revoke the operating licences of major South African firms including MTN Nigeria and DSTV. He argued that Nigeria must adopt firmer diplomatic and economic responses to protect its citizens abroad.
Oshiomhole stated that repeated attacks on Nigerians in South Africa require more than condemnation, stressing the principle of reciprocity in international relations. Reports indicate that the Senate, while condemning the attacks, did not officially adopt the proposal to sanction the companies.
The comments have sparked widespread reactions across social media, with many Nigerians debating whether economic retaliation is the appropriate response to the recurring incidents of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
The issue of xenophobia has remained a major diplomatic concern between both African countries following several past attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians.