The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive assessment of the losses suffered by Nigerians during recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging the Federal Government to pursue compensation and strengthen measures to protect citizens living in the country.
Gatekeepers News reports that Lawmakers also urged the government to intensify diplomatic engagement with South Africa, explore legal options and reinforce bilateral cooperation to safeguard Nigerians against future attacks.
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 losses incurred by Nigerians, compile an inventory of abandoned properties and recommend diplomatic and legal measures to improve the protection of Nigerians residing in South Africa.
Lawmakers said a detailed assessment of the impact of the attacks would help support affected victims and strengthen Nigeria’s response to future incidents of xenophobic violence.
House Seeks Audit of Recovered Assets
In a separate resolution, the House considered a motion calling for a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets from May 29, 1999, to date.
The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, proposed the establishment of a national digital registry for recovered assets and the constitution of an ad hoc committee to improve transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in the management of such assets.
Constitution Review Committee Submits State Police Report
The House also received the report of its Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police.
In addition, lawmakers considered reports relating to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets, while several bills advanced through different stages of legislative consideration.
PFIPC Probe: Committee Warns Defaulting MDAs
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 invitation.
The committee also faulted the absence of the Minister of Finance, who was represented by an official of the ministry, insisting that those summoned must appear in person or face further legislative action.
Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not tolerate disregard for its directives.
The committee 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 legal status.
