Xenophobia: Reps Move to Document Losses, Seek Compensation for Nigerians in South Africa
The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive assessment of the losses, casualties and abandoned properties suffered by Nigerians following the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with a view to securing justice and compensation for the victims.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State, Babajimi Benson, during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
The House directed its Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document the human and economic losses incurred by Nigerians during the attacks, compile an inventory of abandoned properties and recommend diplomatic and legal measures to strengthen the protection of Nigerians living in South Africa.
Lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagement with the South African government, explore legal avenues for compensation where necessary and strengthen bilateral cooperation to safeguard the lives and property of Nigerians residing in the country.
According to the House, a comprehensive assessment of the impact of the attacks is essential to provide adequate support for affected Nigerians and improve the country’s response to future incidents involving its citizens abroad.
Meanwhile, the House also considered a motion seeking a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets since May 29, 1999. The motion, sponsored by the member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, Ibe Osonwa, proposed the establishment of a national digital registry of recovered assets and the creation of an ad hoc committee to strengthen transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in asset management.
Earlier during plenary, the House received the report of its Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police. Lawmakers also considered reports on the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets, while several other bills advanced through various stages of legislative consideration.
In a related development, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) expressed dissatisfaction over the failure of some heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to honour its summons. The committee also faulted the absence of the Minister of Finance, who was represented by an official of the ministry.
Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not tolerate non-compliance with its directives, insisting that officials invited to appear before the committee must do so in person.
The committee also summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser to explain the circumstances surrounding the operations of the PFIPC despite concerns over its legitimacy.