Nigeria's National Assembly Suspends Visits to South Africa

The National Assembly of Nigeria has officially suspended all visits to South Africa and directed its lawmakers, committees, officials, and staff to boycott any legislative activities organized by South African authorities. This decision follows the reported killings of two Nigerians, Bishop Michael Taiwo Fakunle and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo, in separate incidents in Johannesburg.

The suspension was announced after consultations between the leadership of the Senate and the House of Representatives and will remain in effect until further notice, as stated by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana. The National Assembly expressed grave concern over persistent xenophobic attacks, violence, and hostility directed at Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.

Lawmakers noted that these incidents have continued despite appeals from the Nigerian government for protective measures. The resolution prohibits participation in any South African-hosted legislative programs, emphasizing that the suspension is not intended to undermine diplomatic relations but to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad.