Reps Demand Compensation for Nigerians Hit by South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive assessment of the losses suffered by Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging the Federal Government to pursue compensation for victims.

The lawmakers also urged the government to strengthen diplomatic engagement with South Africa, explore legal options and deepen bilateral cooperation to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians residing in the country.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State, during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.

As part of the resolution, the House mandated its Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document casualties, economic losses and properties abandoned by Nigerians during the attacks. The committees are also expected to recommend diplomatic and legal measures aimed at improving the protection of Nigerians living in South Africa.

Lawmakers said a detailed assessment of the attacks was necessary to provide support for affected citizens and strengthen Nigeria’s response to future incidents of xenophobic violence.

In a separate development, the House considered a motion seeking a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets since May 29, 1999.

The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, proposed the creation of a national digital registry for recovered assets and the establishment of an ad hoc committee to improve transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in asset management.

The lawmakers also received the report of the Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police, while reports on the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets and several other bills progressed through various stages of legislative consideration.

Meanwhile, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) criticised the failure of some heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies to honour its invitation.

The committee also faulted the absence of the Minister of Finance, who was represented by a ministry official, insisting that invited public officials must appear in person or risk further legislative action.

Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not tolerate non-compliance with its directives. The committee also summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser to explain concerns surrounding the operations and legitimacy of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council.