The House of Representatives has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the deaths, financial losses and abandoned properties suffered by Nigerians during recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
Lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to strengthen diplomatic engagement with South Africa, pursue legal remedies and enhance bilateral cooperation to guarantee the safety of Nigerians living in the country.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson, who represents Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State, during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
The House mandated its Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document the human and economic impact of the attacks, compile an inventory of abandoned properties and recommend diplomatic and legal measures aimed at improving the protection of Nigerians in South Africa.
Lawmakers said a detailed assessment of the losses was essential to support victims and strengthen Nigeria’s response to future attacks.
In a separate resolution, the House called for a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets across the country.
The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, proposed the creation of a national digital registry of recovered assets and the establishment of an ad hoc committee to improve transparency, accountability and legislative oversight.
The House also received the report of its Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police, while reports on the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets and several bills advanced through different stages of legislative consideration.
Meanwhile, shortly after plenary, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) criticised the failure of some heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to honour its summons.
Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not tolerate non-compliance.
“Invited officials must appear in person or face further legislative action,” Gagdi said.
The committee also faulted the absence of the Minister of Finance, who was represented by a ministry official, insisting that senior government officials must personally account for issues under investigation.
It further summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser to explain how the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council allegedly continued to operate despite concerns over its legitimacy.
