Xenophobic Attacks: Oshiomhole Urges Tinubu to Revoke MTN, DStv Licences

Xenophobic Attacks: Oshiomhole Urges Tinubu to Revoke MTN, DStv Licences

The Adams Oshiomhole has called on the federal government to take strong retaliatory economic measures against South African-owned companies operating in Nigeria, including MTN Group and DStv, amid renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa.

Oshiomhole made the remarks during plenary of the Senate of Nigeria on Tuesday, where lawmakers debated rising tensions following reports of violence against foreign nationals in parts of South Africa. He urged President Bola Tinubu to consider revoking or reviewing operating licences of major South African-linked businesses in Nigeria, arguing that such actions could serve as economic leverage in diplomatic engagement.

The senator said Nigeria should not only condemn the attacks but also respond with reciprocal measures to protect its citizens and assert national dignity in international relations. According to him, economic pressure may compel South African authorities to take stronger action against perpetrators of xenophobic violence and prevent further attacks.

READ ALSO:

• Enugu Islamic Centre Crisis: Muslim Leaders Clear Air on Ani Arrest
• Babachir Lawal: Peter Obi Was Never Fully Committed to ADC
• Bukayo Saka Sends Arsenal Into First UCL Final Since 2006

Oshiomhole, a former president of the Nigeria Labour Congress, further argued that Nigerians affected by the unrest should be evacuated and supported to return home. He suggested that returnees could be reintegrated into local industries, which he said would help boost domestic productivity and create employment opportunities.

In response to the crisis, the federal government has begun arrangements for voluntary evacuation of Nigerians willing to leave South Africa. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed that at least 130 Nigerians have registered for the exercise, with more expected as the situation develops.

She noted that President Tinubu has expressed concern over the attacks and condemned xenophobic rhetoric, hate speech, and anti-migrant demonstrations in South Africa. Diplomatic engagements have also been intensified, including the summoning of South Africa’s acting high commissioner by Nigerian authorities.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence but also urged foreigners residing in the country to comply with local laws. The situation continues to draw attention across both nations as diplomatic discussions and evacuation efforts progress.

The proposal by Oshiomhole is expected to generate further debate due to the significant economic presence of South African companies in Nigeria, particularly in telecommunications and media, where they employ thousands of workers and serve millions of customers.

Xenophobic Attacks: Oshiomhole Urges Tinubu to Revoke MTN, DStv Licences