Xenophobia: Reps seek audit of losses, compensation for Nigerians in South Africa
The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive assessment of the human and economic losses suffered by Nigerians following recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging the Federal Government to pursue compensation and strengthen measures to protect Nigerians living abroad.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State, during Tuesday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
The lawmakers mandated the House Committees on Diaspora Affairs and Foreign Affairs to document casualties, businesses affected, abandoned properties and other losses linked to the attacks.
They said a detailed assessment would provide the basis for supporting affected Nigerians, pursuing diplomatic and legal remedies, and improving the country’s response to future incidents.
The House also urged the Federal Government to intensify engagement with South African authorities and strengthen bilateral cooperation to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians residing in the country.
During the same plenary, lawmakers considered a separate motion seeking a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets belonging to the Federal Government since May 29, 1999.
The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, called for the establishment of a national digital registry for recovered assets and an ad hoc committee to improve transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in the management of such properties.
The House also received the report of the Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police.
Other documents presented before lawmakers included reports relating to the budgets of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, while several bills advanced through different stages of legislative consideration.
Meanwhile, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) criticised some heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for failing to honour its invitations.
The committee expressed displeasure over the absence of the Minister of Finance, who was represented by an official of the ministry, insisting that invited officials must appear personally before the panel.
Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the lawmakers would not tolerate failure to comply with its directives.
The committee also summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser to explain issues surrounding the operations of the council amid concerns over its legitimacy.
