Story perspectives

Nigeria suspends South Africa legislative ties over attacks

By Drooid · Sep 11, 2026, 10:58 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Nigeria Suspends Visits

Nigeria’s National Assembly suspended official visits to South Africa and boycotted legislative activities.
Senate and House leadership jointly approved the suspension, recorded by Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana.
The Assembly cited killings, injuries, displacement and loss of businesses affecting Nigerians in South Africa.
The boycott covers all official visits, committees, lawmakers, staff and virtual legislative events.
Nigeria urged South Africa to protect African nationals, investigate attacks, arrest suspects and prosecute perpetrators.

Summary

Migrants Flee SA

Migrants have fled South Africa in tens of thousands since anti-foreigner protests began.
South Africa reports nearly 90,000 repatriated or deported, while home countries claim about 178,000 left.
Police confirmed at least four migrant deaths, though foreign governments allege higher fatalities.
The June 30 unofficial deadline for undocumented immigrants spurred an AFP-tallied exodus of over 200,000 people.

History

Historical Context

In May 2008, South Africa experienced a wave of xenophobic riots that left at least 62 dead and destroyed over 1,000 foreign-owned businesses. The riots prompted the African National Congress, President Thabo Mbeki, and the Department of Home Affairs to launch a $30 million relief program for affected migrants. Today's Nigerian National Assembly suspension of visits mirrors those 2008 tensions, as lawmakers cite similar attacks on Nigerians and demand South African authorities intervene. The recurrence underscores how unresolved xenophobia fuels diplomatic strains, prompting regional bodies like the African Union to consider stricter migration safeguards.

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Nigeria Suspends Visits

Nigeria’s National Assembly suspended official visits to South Africa and boycotted legislative activities.
Senate and House leadership jointly approved the suspension, recorded by Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana.
The Assembly cited killings, injuries, displacement and loss of businesses affecting Nigerians in South Africa.
The boycott covers all official visits, committees, lawmakers, staff and virtual legislative events.
Nigeria urged South Africa to protect African nationals, investigate attacks, arrest suspects and prosecute perpetrators.

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