Nigerian Senate Proposes Sanctions Against South Africa

On June 30, 2026, the Nigerian Senate, during a plenary session, addressed renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa. A motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong prompted lawmakers to condemn these attacks, which threaten the safety and livelihoods of Nigerians residing there.

The Senate urged the federal government to secure guarantees from South African authorities for the protection of Nigerians and to demand the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attacks. Senator Salihu Mustapha emphasized the need for a robust diplomatic engagement, while former Senate leader Yahaya Abdullahi warned that the attacks could be part of a broader political agenda to destabilize the South African government.

The Senate adopted four resolutions, including a call for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to compile a comprehensive record of Nigerians affected by these attacks and to pursue legal redress. The Senate also mandated its committee on foreign affairs to review the implementation of previous agreements between Nigeria and South Africa regarding xenophobic attacks.