Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on the Federal Government to revoke the operating licences of South African companies, including MTN Group and MultiChoice, following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Speaking during plenary, the Edo North lawmaker urged Nigeria to adopt a firm response based on the principle of reciprocity, arguing that continued attacks on Nigerians abroad require more than diplomatic condemnation.
Oshiomhole proposed that Nigeria should consider nationalising MTN and withdrawing its licence, stating that the company repatriates significant revenue while Nigerians face hostility in South Africa. He extended the call to MultiChoice, operators of DSTV, accusing the firm of economic exploitation and urging similar sanctions.
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The senator framed the proposal as an economic countermeasure, declaring that Nigeria must move beyond sympathy and take decisive action to protect its citizens.
The development comes amid rising tensions following a fresh wave of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in South Africa. Lawmakers in the National Assembly have condemned the attacks and called for urgent diplomatic and protective measures.
Other senators also warned that Nigeria may be forced to take stronger steps if the situation persists, including escalating diplomatic pressure and exploring broader retaliatory options.
The Senate leadership, however, is pursuing a parallel approach, with plans to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels and fact-finding missions aimed at addressing the root causes of the crisis.
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