A Nigerian senator has called for economic retaliation and evacuation plans in response to xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Adams Oshiomhole has urged the federal government to revoke the licences of South African firms including MTN and DStv amid rising xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. Speaking during Senate plenary, he also called for the evacuation of Nigerians willing to return home.
His remarks follow weeks of violence targeting foreign nationals, with accusations that migrants are taking jobs and contributing to crime. Nigeria’s government has begun evacuation plans, with over 130 citizens already registered, according to officials.
Oshiomhole said, “If you hit me, I’ll hit you. I think it’s appropriate in diplomacy,” urging economic retaliation. Authorities, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, have condemned the attacks, while Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s envoy over the situation.
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