Senate Rejects Nationalization of MTN and DStv Amid Xenophobia Row
The Nigerian Senate has rejected calls to nationalize South African firms MTN and DStv as retaliation for xenophobic attacks, opting instead to task its Foreign Affairs Committee with an investigation.
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The Nigerian Senate has rejected proposals to nationalize South African-owned businesses, including telecommunications giant MTN and satellite television provider DStv, in response to ongoing xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa. Lawmakers instead voted to refer the matter to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for a comprehensive investigation.
On Tuesday, the upper legislative chamber declined calls for the Federal Government to seize assets or redirect proceeds from MTN and DStv to compensate victims of violence in South Africa. The Senate strongly condemned the xenophobic attacks, describing them as a violation of human dignity and regional solidarity. It urged the executive branch to intensify diplomatic efforts to safeguard Nigerian citizens abroad.
According to the Premium Times, the Senate mandated its Committee on Foreign Affairs to investigate the attacks on Nigerians in South Africa and submit a report within two weeks. This move signals a preference for diplomatic and institutional scrutiny over retaliatory economic measures. The decision was echoed in coverage by Vanguard News, which reported that the Senate opposed the takeover of South African businesses despite mounting public pressure.
The debate reflects broader tensions over Nigeria’s response to repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence in South Africa. While some lawmakers and citizens have advocated for economic reprisals, the Senate’s action underscores a legislative preference for due process and multilateral engagement. The outcome of the Foreign Affairs Committee’s inquiry may shape future policy responses to cross-border citizen protection within the African continent.