Former Senate President Ahmed Lawan has recounted a tense diplomatic encounter with South African officials over xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
Lawan made the disclosure during an interview on TV Platinum, where he reflected on past efforts by Nigeria’s leadership to confront the recurring violence. According to him, the National Assembly had taken a firm stance by directly engaging representatives of the South African government at the height of previous attacks.
Providing details of the confrontation, Lawan said, “Mr President I invited the South African High Commissioner here. Those who were in attendance could remember what happened particularly Orji Uzor Kalu who was then the Chief Whip. I told him to his face, enough is enough, you can’t be killing our people while your businesses flourish here.”
He explained that the meeting underscored Nigeria’s frustration over the repeated targeting of its citizens despite strong economic ties between both countries. Lawan noted that Nigerian authorities had expected more decisive action from South Africa to protect foreign nationals and prevent further attacks.
The former Senate President stressed that such incidents threaten not only bilateral relations but also the broader vision of African unity and cooperation. He argued that African nations must uphold mutual respect and ensure the safety of citizens across borders.