The Senate on Tuesday warned that Nigeria could review its diplomatic relations with South Africa if renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians persist, as lawmakers condemned the reported targeting of Nigerian citizens and businesses.

The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong, who drew the attention of the Senate to the June 30, 2026, ultimatum allegedly issued to Nigerians residing in South Africa, describing it as a grave threat to their safety and livelihoods.

The development comes amid renewed concerns over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which over the years have claimed the lives of several Nigerians, destroyed businesses and repeatedly strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.

During plenary, senators called on the Federal Government to obtain firm guarantees from the South African authorities for the protection of Nigerians and urged sustained diplomatic engagement to prevent a recurrence.

Contributing to the debate, Senator Salihu Mustapha (Kwara Central) called for a tougher response from the Federal Government.

“We cannot continue to fold our arms while Nigerians are being killed and their businesses looted,” he said.

“This is the starting point for a very robust engagement. I suggest we sever all diplomatic relations with South Africa.”

However, the Senate adopted a more cautious position after former Senate Leader, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, argued that the attacks could be part of a broader political agenda aimed at destabilising the South African government.

Recalling his involvement in Nigeria’s National Committee Against Apartheid and support for liberation movements, including the African National Congress (ANC), SWAPO and FRELIMO, Abdullahi urged lawmakers to consider the wider political context.

“This is a coordinated effort to destabilise the government of South Africa and to remove the ruling party, the ANC, from office,” he said.

“There is an attempt by right-wing elements among white South Africans, now being joined by some black groups, to delegitimise the government as quickly as possible. We should tread with great caution and carefully consider this conspiracy.”

Abdullahi also lamented the poor funding of Nigeria’s foreign missions, saying it had weakened the country’s capacity to adequately protect Nigerians living abroad.

Following deliberations, the Senate urged the Federal Government to engage South African authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians and to take all necessary diplomatic steps to prevent further xenophobic attacks.