By Ebi Kesiena
A seating Senator of the Nigerian House of Assembly, Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on the Nigerian Government to take decisive retaliatory measures against South African companies operating in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, the former Edo State governor urged authorities to consider revoking the operating licences of major South African-owned firms, including MTN Group and MultiChoice Group.
Oshiomhole argued that Nigeria must adopt a firm stance in response to what he described as recurring hostility and violence targeting its citizens abroad. According to him, diplomatic engagement should be backed by strong economic countermeasures.
“I am not going to shed tears. If you hit me, I hit you. I think it is appropriate in diplomacy. It is an economic struggle,” he said.
The lawmaker also dismissed claims by some South Africans that Nigerians are responsible for unemployment in their country. He suggested that Nigerians could instead return home and take advantage of job opportunities provided by South African businesses operating within Nigeria.
“When we hit back, the President of South Africa will not only talk but will also go on his knees to recognise that Nigeria cannot be intimidated,” he stated.
While acknowledging the right of South African authorities to prosecute crimes under their laws, Oshiomhole condemned the alleged killing of Nigerians, insisting that such acts must not go unanswered.
“We will not condone any life being lost. If a crime has been committed under South African law, they have the right to bring such persons to justice, but to kill our people as if we are helpless, we will not allow that,” he added.
The senator’s remarks come amid reports of fresh xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where several Nigerians have allegedly been assaulted and their businesses looted or destroyed.
