By: Odeh Favour Adiya
The Nigerian Senate has reached a boiling point over the recurring xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, is leading a fierce charge for the federal government to take drastic retaliatory measures. During a plenary session, Oshiomhole argued that it is time for Nigeria to move past simply “shedding tears” and offering sympathy for those who have died. He insisted that the government must apply the principle of reciprocity in international relations, essentially saying that if Nigerians are hit abroad, Nigeria must hit back at South African interests at home.
Specifically, Oshiomhole is calling for the nationalization of MTN and the total withdrawal of its operating license. He pointed out that MTN is a South African company that remits millions of dollars out of Nigeria every single day while Nigerians are being targeted with hostility in South Africa. By taking over these companies, he believes the government would not only send a powerful message but also create room for local Nigerian firms to thrive in those sectors.
The Senator didn’t stop at telecommunications; he also set his sights on DSTV. He urged the Federal Government to revoke DSTV’s license as well, alleging that the company engages in unfair practices and economic exploitation. Oshiomhole’s stance is that Nigerians in South Africa are not there on holiday; they are productive workers who earn their living, and it is the government’s duty to protect them. He went as far as saying that once Nigeria takes these economic steps, the leadership in South Africa will be forced to recognize that Nigerians cannot be intimidated.
Adding to the urgency, Senator Victor Umeh from Anambra Central described the current situation as “alarming,” noting that Nigerians are currently hiding for their lives and are unable to move freely. Umeh expressed deep frustration, stating that South Africa is “paying good with evil” considering the massive support Nigeria provided during their anti-apartheid struggle. He called on the African Union to step in and impose necessary sanctions, warning that Nigeria’s tolerance for these attacks has reached its limit. These demands follow a formal condemnation of the violence by the House of Representatives, which has also pressed the presidency to take immediate diplomatic and protective action.
