Nigeria has suspended visits to South Africa by its parliament indefinitely, escalating its response to violent anti-immigrant protests that have targeted Nigerians and other African nationals.
The National Assembly said the decision reflected growing concern about the safety of Nigerians living, working and operating businesses in South Africa.
Kamoru Ogunlana, Clerk to Nigeria’s National Assembly, said lawmakers were “particularly concerned by reports of Nigerians being killed, injured, displaced and forced to abandon their businesses, investments, homes and other properties.”
Killings deepen diplomatic strain
The parliamentary action follows months of tension between the two African powers. Protests against foreign nationals have forced thousands of migrants to leave South Africa, with demonstrators blaming immigrants for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
Two Nigerians were killed in June, shortly before a deadline set by protesters for foreigners to leave. Nigerian authorities said one of the victims was allegedly killed by police officers, while unidentified attackers killed the other.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, told South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola during talks in Abuja in July that at least 98 Nigerians had been killed in mob attacks, hate-related incidents and extrajudicial killings since 2022.
Parliament demands protection
Ogunlana described the suspension as a “strong expression” of Nigeria’s concern for its citizens. The measure will remain in place while Abuja seeks firmer guarantees over their safety and welfare.
Migration figures remain contested. South African government data show that almost 90,000 people have been deported or voluntarily repatriated since the tensions began.
Figures compiled from migrants’ home governments put the number at about 178,000.
The latest move adds political weight to a dispute already testing relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
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