Reps Seek Compensation For Nigerians Affected By Xenophobic Attacks

The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive assessment of the losses suffered by Nigerians following recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, while urging the Federal Government to pursue compensation and stronger protection for affected citizens.

Lawmakers said the investigation should capture the number of casualties, the extent of economic losses and properties abandoned by Nigerians who were forced to flee the violence.

They also urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagements with South Africa, explore legal options and strengthen bilateral cooperation to guarantee the safety and protection of Nigerians living in the country.

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 motion mandates the House Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document the human and economic losses recorded during the attacks, compile an inventory of abandoned properties and recommend diplomatic and legal measures that would improve the protection of Nigerians residing in South Africa.

Lawmakers maintained that carrying out a detailed assessment of the attacks would provide the government with accurate data needed to support affected Nigerians while strengthening the country’s response to similar incidents in the future.

“There’s Hate In The Atmosphere”, Nigerian Returnee Recounts Xenophobic Experience In South Africa.

During the same plenary, the House also considered a motion seeking a comprehensive audit of all assets seized, forfeited and recovered by the Federal Government since May 29, 1999.

The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, who represents Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, proposed the creation of a national digital registry for recovered assets as well as the establishment of an ad hoc committee to improve transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in the management of recovered assets.

The House also received the report of its Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police.

Lawmakers further considered reports relating to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets, while several bills advanced through different stages of legislative consideration.

Meanwhile, shortly after plenary, 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 a ministry official, insisting that invited public officials must appear before the panel in person or risk further legislative action.

Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not tolerate disregard for its directives.

The committee also summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser to explain how the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council allegedly continued to operate despite questions surrounding its legitimacy.