Reps Move to Uncover Losses From Attacks on Nigerians in South Africa

(House of Reps. Photo Credit: Channels TV)

Following recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the House of Representatives has demanded a thorough investigation into the losses, fatalities, and homes abandoned by Nigerians.

In order to guarantee the security and safety of Nigerians residing in South Africa, the MPs also called on the Federal Government to step up diplomatic efforts, take legal action, and improve bilateral cooperation.

The resolution came after a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson, the member representing Lagos State's Ikorodu Federal Constituency, was approved during Tuesday's plenary session, which was presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.

At the preliminary hearing today, Barrister Bello Galadi, the plaintiff's attorney, stated that they had submitted four pending applications.

The motion seeks to mandate the House Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document the human and economic losses suffered by Nigerians during the att@cks, compile an inventory of abandoned properties, and recommend diplomatic and legal measures to improve the protection of Nigerians residing in South Africa.

Lawmakers argued that a thorough assessment of the impact of the att@cks is necessary to support affected Nigerians and strengthen the country's response to future incidents.

House Seeks Audit of Recovered Assets

Also at plenary, the House considered a motion calling for a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets since May 29, 1999.

The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, advocates the creation of a national digital registry of recovered assets and the establishment of an ad hoc committee to enhance transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in asset management.

State Police Report Received

The House also received the report of the Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police.

Other reports presented before lawmakers included those relating to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets, while several bills progressed through various stages of legislative consideration.

PFIPC Probe

Meanwhile, shortly after plenary, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) expressed displeasure over the failure of some heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies to honour its summons.

The committee also criticised the absence of the Minister of Finance, who was represented by an official of the ministry, insisting that invited officials must appear in person or face further legislative action.

The Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not tolerate non-compliance with its directives.

The committee further summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser to explain how the council allegedly operated despite concerns raised over its legitimacy.