The Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, on Tuesday called on the Federal Government to revoke the operating licences of MTN Nigeria and DStv in response to renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Raising the matter during plenary, Oshiomhole advocated a shift from diplomatic protests to what he described as firm economic retaliation, insisting that Nigeria must adopt a policy of reciprocity in its foreign relations.
The former Edo State governor argued that continued violence against Nigerians abroad required decisive action beyond expressions of sympathy.
“I don’t want this Senate to be shedding tears or merely sympathising with victims. We must respond appropriately. If you hit me, I’ll hit you. It is part of diplomacy,” he said.
He specifically urged the Federal Government to nationalise MTN Nigeria and withdraw its licence, alleging that the company repatriates significant revenue from the country. He also called for similar action against DStv, another South African-owned business operating in Nigeria.
Oshiomhole maintained that Nigerians residing in South Africa were economically active and contributed meaningfully to their host country, stressing that they should not be subjected to intimidation or violence.
“These Nigerians are not there on holiday; they are working and earning legitimately. A strong response from Nigeria will compel the South African authorities to act responsibly,” he added.
The lawmaker warned that Nigeria’s perceived tolerance of repeated attacks sends a weak signal and undermines its ability to protect its citizens.
He linked the resurgence of xenophobic violence to internal political tensions in South Africa, noting that rising anti-immigrant rhetoric has fuelled hostility towards foreigners, including Nigerians.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives also condemned the latest attacks, describing the situation as unacceptable and urging the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagement while ensuring the protection of Nigerians abroad.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Victor Umeh described the situation as dire, warning that many Nigerians in South Africa now live in fear and face restrictions on their movement.
Umeh called on the African Union to intervene, including the consideration of sanctions should the attacks persist.
He stressed that the recurring violence should no longer be treated as isolated incidents but as a pattern requiring urgent continental action.
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