Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi has criticised the National Assembly’s cautious response to reported xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, calling for stronger government action instead of continued diplomatic restraint.
Speaking on the Senate floor, Ningi said repeated killings and displacement of Nigerians in South Africa require decisive measures. He urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio to lead a more assertive response, arguing that Nigeria, as Africa’s “giant,” must demonstrate its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
“We cannot pretend those killed in South Africa are not human. We cannot pretend those killed are not Nigerians. Mr. President, talking and lamenting is not going to take us anywhere. There has to be action, including a less cordial diplomatic relationship with South Africa,” Ningi said.
He added, “I like my younger brother’s motion, pardon me for using that word, ‘caution my feet.’ Silence is no longer golden. A so-called giant of Africa, and our citizens are being killed left, right and centre, and what we do is caution.”
Ningi’s remarks reflect growing concern among lawmakers over Nigeria’s response to attacks on its citizens abroad and renewed calls for stronger diplomatic action.
