Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on the Federal Government to take strong economic action against South African companies operating in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Speaking during plenary, the lawmaker representing Edo North urged authorities to revoke the licences of MTN Nigeria and DStv, both of which are South African-owned. He also encouraged Nigerian investors to step in and fill any resulting gaps.
Oshiomhole argued that Nigeria must move beyond diplomatic protests and adopt a more assertive, reciprocal approach.
“We didn’t come here to shed tears or sympathise alone. If you hit me, I’ll hit you. This is an economic struggle,” he said.
According to him, companies like MTN and DStv generate significant revenue from Nigeria, and decisive action against them would send a strong message to South Africa.
The former Edo State governor also emphasized that Nigerians living in South Africa are hardworking contributors to the economy, not dependents.
“They are not there on holiday. They are there to work and earn,” he noted, adding that firm retaliation could compel South African authorities to better protect Nigerians.
Oshiomhole linked the recent surge in xenophobic violence to internal political tensions in South Africa, where anti-immigrant sentiments have increasingly influenced public attitudes.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has condemned the attacks, warning that the safety of Nigerians abroad must not be taken lightly. Lawmakers called for stronger diplomatic engagement and concrete measures to safeguard citizens.
Also contributing to the debate, Senator Victor Umeh described the situation as alarming, stating that many Nigerians in South Africa now live in fear and face restrictions on their movement.
He further urged the African Union to intervene, suggesting that sanctions could be considered if the attacks persist. Umeh stressed that the recurring violence should no longer be treated as isolated incidents.