Former Edo State governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, on Tuesday called on the Federal Government to take decisive action against South African companies operating in Nigeria following renewed attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Speaking during plenary, the lawmaker urged authorities to consider strong economic measures, including reviewing or withdrawing operational licences of major South African-owned firms such as MTN and DStv.
Oshiomhole said Nigeria must adopt a firm diplomatic stance in response to what he described as recurring hostility and violence against its citizens abroad.
“We cannot continue to watch our people being attacked without a strong response. If they take action against us, we must also respond appropriately. This is beyond diplomacy; it has become an economic issue,” he said.
He further argued that Nigerians could fill employment gaps created by foreign companies if such firms were sanctioned, particularly those with significant operations within the country.
According to him, a decisive response from Nigeria would compel South African authorities to take stronger steps in protecting foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
“We cannot tolerate a situation where our citizens are treated as though their lives do not matter. If any Nigerian commits an offence, such a person should face the law, but extrajudicial actions must not be condoned,” he added.
His comments come amid growing concerns over reported cases of violence, looting, and intimidation targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
The latest wave of attacks has reignited calls for stronger diplomatic and economic measures to safeguard Nigerians living and doing business in the country.
