Nigerian Senate considers diplomatic action against South Africa over xenophobic attacks
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
The Nigerian Senate has warned that it may review diplomatic relations with South Africa if xenophobic attacks against Nigerians continue. This resolution followed a motion by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong, highlighting an alleged June 30, 2026, ultimatum issued to Nigerians in South Africa. Senators called for the Federal Government to secure guarantees for the protection of Nigerians and engage in decisive diplomatic action. Senator Salihu Mustapha advocated for a tougher stance, including severing diplomatic ties. However, former Senate Leader Senator Yahaya Abdullahi cautioned that the attacks might be part of a political agenda to destabilize the South African government and remove the ruling ANC. He also lamented the poor funding of Nigeria鈥檚 foreign missions, which he believes weakens the country's ability to protect its citizens abroad. The Senate adopted resolutions directing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa to obtain written assurances from the South African government, demand the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators, and compile records of Nigerians affected for legal redress and compensation. Lawmakers also urged collaboration with other African countries and the African Union to establish an early warning and accountability mechanism. The Committees on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Affairs are mandated to review previous resolutions and bilateral agreements and report back within two legislative weeks. Proposals from Sen
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Minister of Works David Umahi stated that former presidential candidate Peter Obi does not pose a political threat to President Bola Tinubu or the All Progressives Congress APC. Speaking on ARISE Television, Umahi claimed Obi "cannot even face" him, let alone the President. He described Obi's political influence as "AI politics" and asserted that neither Tinubu nor the APC is concerned. Umahi also criticized Obi's tenure as Anambra State governor, questioning his moral authority to call for President Tinubu's resignation, citing alleged failures in infrastructure, industry, and contractor payments during Obi's governorship. Furthermore, Umahi accused members of the "Obidient movement" of intolerance, alleging that critics face insults, threats, and lawsuits. He challenged the movement to debate him on infrastructure and the Tinubu administration's reform agenda, insisting the government's performance is robust. Regarding the economy, Umahi acknowledged inherited structural challenges, arguing that economic recovery takes time and that the administration's reforms are beginning to show results, justifying a second term for President Tinubu.
The Delta State Police Command has demoted Inspector Augustine Jeremiah and Corporal Miracle Ehirim after they were found guilty of extortion and misconduct. The officers were captured in a viral video on January 13, 2026, receiving money from a motorist via a Point-of-Sale terminal inside a police station. Following an orderly room trial, Jeremiah was reduced from Inspector to Sergeant, and Ehirim from Corporal to Constable. Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, upheld the findings, stating that the officers were guilty of "Disobedience to Lawful Order, Extortion and Discreditable Conduct." Oyeniyi reiterated that the Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu prohibits the use of POS terminals and other electronic payment platforms within police stations and formations. He warned that no officer is authorized to demand or receive money from the public and that any culpable officer will face disciplinary action. The Commissioner urged officers to maintain professionalism and integrity, and encouraged the public to report police misconduct.
Must ReadThe Nigerian Senate has voiced serious concern regarding the country's deteriorating security situation, specifically highlighting the abduction and killing of retired military officers by terrorists and criminal groups. This pattern of attacks on both serving and retired military personnel is seen as a significant threat to national stability, public confidence, and the nation's security framework. The concern arose from a motion by Senator Abdulaziz Yar'Adua following the death of retired Major General Alkali Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, who was abducted with his wife in Katsina State on May 30, 2026, and later died in captivity. Senators observed a minute of silence for Major General Abubakar, describing his death as a reflection of the growing insecurity. Lawmakers cited several incidents between January 2023 and May 2026, including the killing of retired Major General Richard Duru and retired Brigadier General O.M. Harlord Udokwere, and the captivity of former National Youth Service Corps Director-General, retired Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga, and retired Major Aja. The Senate warned that the increasing frequency of such attacks represents a dangerous evolution in the nation's security challenges, noting that many victims held sensitive intelligence, operational, and command positions. The Senate emphasized that this insecurity has far-reaching implications for national unity, democratic stability, and public trust. While commending security ag