There has been a spate of anti-migrant protests in South Africa
The National Assembly has suspended all official visits to South Africa and ordered a boycott of legislative activities hosted by the country over continued reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians.
The decision followed consultations between the leadership of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
A statement signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, says the suspension covers official visits by lawmakers, committees, officials and staff of the National Assembly.
It also applies to conferences, seminars, workshops, parliamentary meetings and legislative exchanges organised or hosted by South Africa.
The National Assembly said the suspension covers both physical and virtual participation and will remain in force until further notice.
Ogunlana said the decision followed continued reports of attacks, violence, intimidation and destruction of property involving Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.
He said some Nigerians had reportedly been killed, injured, displaced or forced to abandon their businesses, investments, homes and other properties.
The Clerk noted that the Federal Government and other stakeholders had made appeals and taken steps, including evacuation efforts, to address the situation.
The National Assembly called on South African authorities to protect Nigerians and other Africans, prevent further attacks and investigate, arrest and prosecute those responsible.
It stresses that the decision was not intended to undermine relations between Nigeria and South Africa but to express concern over the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerians.
The National Assembly also urged State Houses of Assembly to take note of the decision and consider similar measures.
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