General News
South African Xenophobic Attacks: Senate Calls for Caution
–FG not to take over MTN, DStv
–Waits Committee report for further action
By Nick Ibe, Abuja
The Senate plenary session on Tuesday called for caution as it also rejected calls to nationalise South African-owned businesses, including MTN and DStv, in retaliation for the ongoing xenophobic attacks on Nigerians. It however strongly condemned the lawless violence against Nigerians and other African nationals and urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to protect Nigerians in the country.
This is the second time in two months that the attention of the Nigerian Senate is drawn to xenophobic attacks on citizens in South Africa.
After debate, the Upper Chamber called on the federal government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa, to obtain written assurances from the South African government regarding the protection of Nigerians following the expiration of the 30 June 2026 ultimatum and to demand the arrest and prosecution of all persons responsible for violence, intimidation, looting and unlawful immigration enforcement.
Resolutions of the Senate on Tuesday were sequel to the motion titled “Motion on the Need to Halt the Recurring Xenophobic Attacks and Intimidation Against Nigerians and Other African Nationals in the Republic of South Africa” sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, APC, Cross River South.
The motion comes following a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals residing in the Republic of South Africa after the expiration of the June 30th deadline that was imposed on them to leave the country by vigilante groups.
The Senate urged the federal government to impress on the South African government to ensure that perpetrators of these deadly acts are made to face the full wrath of the law, just as it asked the government to secure written assurance about the safety of Nigerian citizens in South Africa.
The Upper Chamber further called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa to strengthen emergency consular arrangements and establish a verified register of Nigerians who have suffered death, injury, displacement, unlawful detention, or loss of businesses and property, with a view to facilitating legal redress, restitution and compensation.
It further urged the federal government to engage other affected African countries and work through the African Union to establish an effective early warning, monitoring and accountability mechanism for xenophobic attacks and related violence across the continent.
The upper Chambers also directed its committees on foreign affairs and diaspora and non-governmental organisations to review the implementation of the Senate’s resolutions of 5 May 2026 and previous Nigeria–South Africa engagements and report back to the Senate within four weeks on measures taken, assurances obtained, and outstanding actions required.
It however rejected calls on the federal government to severe ties with South Africa as requested. Senators Adams Oshiomhole, APC, Edo North and Abdul Ningi, Bauchi Central, countered calls to nationalise South African businesses in Nigeria as raised by Senator Eshilokun Wasiu, APC, Lagos Central.
Senator Oshiomhole in his additional prayer said, “My name is Adams Oshiomhole, representing the good people of Edo North. I rise to move an amendment to the motion. I was alarmed by comments attributed to a South African minister suggesting that compensation would not be paid to Nigerians whose properties were looted, shops burnt, businesses destroyed, and lives lost during the recent xenophobic attacks.
“If indeed the South African government refuses to compensate affected Nigerians, it is proposed that the federal government of Nigeria should consider appropriating the profits made by South African companies operating in Nigeria, including their banks and other businesses, and use those funds to compensate Nigerian victims.”
“The ultimatum reportedly given to Nigerians to leave by June 30 was enforced by mobs while the South African government appeared unable to protect innocent people. We cannot allow Nigerians to suffer such losses and then use Nigerian taxpayers’ money to compensate them while South African businesses continue to make profits here.
“I therefore urge that the profits accruing to South African companies in Nigeria be appropriated and used to compensate Nigerians whose businesses were destroyed and whose loved ones were killed.
In stopping the prayer, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, APC, Kano North, who presided at the time, said, ‘Before we proceed, let me make one point.
“Nobody in this chamber is happy with what is happening in South Africa. The actions of violent groups attacking innocent people are completely unacceptable. Killing people in the name of protests cannot and should not be tolerated.
“However, we also need to exercise caution. As Senator Oshiomhole rightly noted, we should not rely solely on statements circulating on social media without proper verification.
“I watched the interview being referred to. The South African minister explained that people occupying illegal settlements without legal title would not receive compensation because they had no legal ownership. However, those with valid property titles would retain their ownership rights, regardless of whether they had been displaced.
“That explanation, however, does not excuse the failure to prevent innocent people from being displaced in the first place. If the South African government is facing internal security challenges or coordinated attempts to destabilise the country, then it should come out openly and tell the international community. We are fellow Africans, and whilst stabilising is required, we can always cooperate.
“For now, I appeal that we allow the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by your distinguished colleague and former governor, to complete its investigation before we take further decisions. Let the committee do its work and submit its findings.”
Senator Oshiomhole, interjecting, said, “Mr President, with profound respect, this matter was extensively debated about a month ago.
“Under your leadership, the Senate resolved that the Committee on Foreign Affairs should investigate the situation. You even suggested that a delegation be sent to South Africa.
“Respectfully, it should not appear that our previous decision must now await further opinion before action is taken. We should not continue to exercise caution until more Nigerians are killed.”
At this point, Barau Jibrin said, “Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, you are hereby given two weeks to submit your report so that this Senate can take decisive action on the matter.
“Very well. The Committee on Foreign Affairs is directed to table its report within two weeks on the attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. We need comprehensive information so that this Senate can determine the appropriate course of action.
“I thank Senator Oshiomhole for his understanding, and I commend all distinguished senators who contributed to this debate.
“Let me also state that the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa, has been actively engaging the situation and providing support to affected Nigerians.
“The government is doing well. Your contribution simply calls for even greater attention to the situation, which is welcome. I can assure this chamber that Nigerian authorities remain in regular contact with our citizens in South Africa.
“We hope the South African government will also look inward and decisively address the activities of those carrying out these heinous attacks under the guise of protests. Justice must be done for Nigerians and other African nationals who have been killed, injured, or displaced.”
Senator Ekpenyong in his submission had stated that: “The Senate expressed grave concern over the renewed wave of xenophobic attacks, intimidation and anti-foreigner vigilantism against Nigerians and other African nationals residing in the Republic of South Africa.
“It also notes that anti-migrant groups issued an unlawful ultimatum requiring foreign nationals considered undocumented to leave South Africa by 30 June 2026, a deadline which has since expired and was accompanied by widespread fear, demonstrations, displacement, and reports of violence, including attacks on foreign-owned businesses and homes.
“Aware that the intimidation has extended beyond undocumented migrants to Nigerians and other foreign nationals possessing valid residence, work and immigration permits, some of whom have reportedly been threatened, profiled, evicted or ordered to leave by unauthorised vigilante groups.
“Observes that the indiscriminate targeting of foreign nationals, including lawful residents, demonstrates that the campaign cannot be regarded merely as immigration enforcement but constitutes xenophobic hostility based on nationality and perceived foreign origin.
“It also observes that Nigeria’s solidarity with South Africa was not limited to government action, as Nigerian workers, students and other citizens contributed significantly to the anti-apartheid struggle, while educational institutions and public facilities across Nigeria continue to bear the name of Nelson Mandela in recognition of his sacrifice and enduring legacy.
“Recalls that Nigeria, alongside other African countries, stood firmly with the people of South Africa during the struggle against apartheid by providing sustained diplomatic, financial and material support to the liberation movement, while campaigning for the release of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners.
“It also recalls that under General Olusegun Obasanjo as military head of state, Nigeria hosted the World Conference for Action Against Apartheid in Lagos in 1977 and subsequently adopted significant economic measures against foreign commercial interests associated with apartheid South Africa, including the nationalisation of British Petroleum’s Nigerian interests and pressure on Barclays Bank and other affected institutions.
“Further recalls that the Senate, in its resolution of 5 May 2026, condemned the attacks and called for diplomatic engagement, enhanced protection for Nigerians, and sustained parliamentary intervention.
“Concerned that while Nigerian-owned businesses in South Africa have been attacked, looted, shut down or abandoned under threats of violence, South African-owned enterprises and brands, including MTN and DStv, continue to operate lawfully and profitably in Nigeria, with Nigeria consistently upholding the rule of law by rejecting retaliatory actions against South African nationals and legitimate commercial interests;
“Recognises the sovereign authority of South Africa to enforce its immigration laws but maintains that such enforcement must be carried out exclusively by authorised state institutions in accordance with the rule of law, human dignity and the fundamental rights of all persons.”
By Isa Abdul
The construction of an alleged mortuary close to public school and residential buildings has been protested against by the residents of Agbeji Community in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The protesters who carried placards on Tuesday cite health and environmental concerns, even as the landowner insists he has the right to develop the property.
One of the protesters, who spoke on camera said they are not against someone’s business but their worry is the location of the mortuary near residential buildings and a public school.
But the landowner who identified himself as Alh. Rilwan Okobomude, disagrees, insisting the property is his and that he has the right to develop it, while pledging to comply with relevant regulations.
In an interview with News Central, monitored in Abuja, the land owner talked about building the mortuary for the hospital.
But it is not clear why he’s building a mortuary before the hospital.
General News
Benue Govt Gives 2-Week Ultimatum To Owners Of Illegal Billboards, Threatens Mass Removal
By Felix Umande
The Benue State Government has decried the arbitrary erection of billboards across the state by individuals, groups and political parties without approval, warning that all unauthorised structures will be pulled down after a two-week grace period.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, by the Benue State Signage and Advertisement Agency, the Benue State Internal Revenue Service, BIRS, and the Urban Development Board, the government said the billboards were erected without permit, without clearance and without payment of prescribed fees.
The agencies said the practice breaches the law, deprives the state of legitimate revenue, endangers public safety and undermines orderly urban development.
The statement, signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Chief Solomon Iorpev, however, said government was prepared to assume that many offenders acted out of ignorance rather than deliberate defiance.
Consequently, owners and operators of unauthorised billboards have been given two weeks, beginning Tuesday, October 6, 2026, to regularise their structures.
Within the window, they are required to approach the Benue State Signage and Advertisement Agency to begin the permit process, obtain clearance from the Urban Development Board, and pay all required fees.
The government warned that enforcement will commence on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, with no further notice.
“Enforcement teams are expected to begin the removal of every billboard that has not been regularised from the set date. Billboards taken down will be at the owners’ cost. Anyone who ignores this window should expect no sympathy and no exception, regardless of status, affiliation or political party,” the statement said.
It described the grace period as a sign of government’s goodwill and preference for compliance over confrontation, urging all concerned to use the window.
For further clarification, the government advised the public to contact 09034345007.
–Tells Editors: “remain primary filter against information disorder.”
By Son Tertsea, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set in motion a financial monitoring mechanism, in conjunction with anti-graft and financial intelligence agencies, to fish out those embarking on illegal campaign spending.
This was one of the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan’s, disclosures on Monday in Abuja while delivering a keynote at a strategic workshop with media executives organised by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) in collaboration with the commission.
INEC chairman also disclosed that the number of registered voters has risen to more than 103 million.
In addition, INEC said, it has acquired 57,000 new Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines as part of measures to strengthen the technological infrastructure for the 2027 elections.
Its target, according to the body, was to commence voting simultaneously across all polling units nationwide during the 2027 elections.
INEC’s collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), he said, was to monitor campaign financing and identify suspicious expenditure with s view to preventing money from undermining the credibility of the elections.
In Amupitan’s view, the teams will track illegal campaign spending, strengthen surveillance around polling units to detect attempts to influence voters through financial inducements.
He warned political actors that violators of the Electoral Act would attract arrest and prosecution, adding that elections must be decided by the conviction of the voter, not the depth of a candidate’s pocket.
The chairman disclosed that the three-phase National Register of Voters had produced 10,772,421 new voters, with 2,611,266 in the first phase, 4,121,835 in the second phase and 3,867,997 in the third phase, respectively. But the fugure is subject to final verification, completing eight of the 14 major statutory activities contained in its timetable for the 2027 elections.
The electoral umpire added that the final Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) cleanup was complete, and the preliminary register was displayed for claims and objections. In his words:
“In line with Section 10 of the Electoral Act 2026, the first phase of the CVR commenced on August 25, 2025 and ended on December 10, 2025, registering 2,611,266 voters; Phase II commenced on January 5, 2026, and ended on April 17, 2026, registering 4,121 ,835 voters; and Phase Ill commenced on May 11, 2026 and ended on July 26, 2026, registering 3,867,997 voters. The total new registration stands at 10,772,421, subject to the ABIS verification being concluded.”
Amupitan revealed that the commission had drawn lessons from recent off-cycle elections and would improve its logistics, personnel and technology ahead of the 2027 polls.
The commission further warned political parties, candidates and campaign managers against violence, intimidation and hate speech and other vices ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The commission, through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), he said, had activated an early-warning framework to monitor political violence, thuggery and dangerous campaign rhetoric.
Amupitan called editors, the “bridge in an era of information chaos”, to work with INEC to build a public space of verified information, civic responsibility and institutional trust. In his words:
“When newsrooms prioritise factual accuracy over sensational headlines, when reports contextualise field logistics rather than default to inflammatory speculation, and when information is verified before publication, you perform a sacred public service. You act as the primary filter protecting our democracy against information disorder.”
In his submission at the event, President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Eze Anaba, canvassed for a credible and transparent electoral process that would give voters, rather than the courts, the outcome of elections.
He said: “Elections were not merely about casting ballots but about building citizens’ confidence that their votes would count and that institutions responsible for conducting elections would act fairly and professionally.”
To Akingbulu, verification was a two-way process, arguing that newsrooms could not properly verify information that institutions failed to disclose.
Warning against deepfakes, fabricated campaign materials and other forms of manipulated content, saying such developments could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPI), Lanre Arogundade, stressed the importance of timely and transparent communication from INEC.
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