Xenophobia: Oshiomhole Calls for Ban on MTN, DSTV as Senate Weighs Stronger Action Against South Africa

Lawmakers divided as calls for economic retaliation clash with diplomatic approach

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By Umar Baba | Abuja, Nigeria | May 5, 2026

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called for the revocation of licences of South African companies operating in Nigeria, including MTN and MultiChoice, over renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

The proposal comes amid growing outrage in the National Assembly over the safety of Nigerian citizens abroad.

Speaking during plenary, Oshiomhole urged Nigeria to adopt a firm stance rooted in the principle of reciprocity in international relations, arguing that continued attacks on Nigerians demand decisive action.

He proposed the nationalisation of MTN and withdrawal of its operating licence, citing concerns over capital flight and the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.

The former Edo State governor extended the call to MultiChoice, operator of DSTV, alleging exploitative practices and urging the Federal Government to revoke its licence.

Senate Debates Retaliation vs Diplomacy

The call for economic retaliation sparked mixed reactions among lawmakers, reflecting a broader debate between hardline and diplomatic approaches.

While some senators backed strong countermeasures, others advocated caution, emphasising the need for structured diplomatic engagement to resolve the crisis.

The motion, sponsored by Osita Izunaso and presented by Aniekan Bassey, highlighted the urgency of protecting Nigerians facing violence and discrimination abroad.

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Lawmakers Raise Alarm Over Safety of Nigerians

Senators expressed deep concern over the increasing frequency of xenophobic attacks, with reports of killings, harassment, and widespread fear among Nigerians living in South Africa.

Victor Umeh described the situation as alarming, noting that many Nigerians are now living in hiding and unable to move freely.

He called on the African Union to intervene and impose sanctions, stressing that Nigeria can no longer tolerate attacks on its citizens.

Warnings of Escalation

In a more forceful tone, Abdul Ningi warned that Nigeria could respond with reciprocal measures if attacks persist, signalling the potential for escalation in tensions.

He maintained that while South Africa has the right to enforce its laws, extrajudicial actions against Nigerians are unacceptable.

Senate Leadership Pushes Diplomatic Engagement

Senate President Godswill Akpabio condemned the attacks as “barbaric” and “unacceptable,” assuring that the National Assembly would engage South African authorities directly.

He disclosed plans to send a joint delegation to meet with the South African Parliament as part of diplomatic efforts to address the crisis.

The debate underscores mounting pressure on the Federal Government to adopt a tougher stance against recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa. While calls for economic retaliation gain traction, the Senate leadership appears to favour diplomacy, setting the stage for a critical test of Nigeria’s foreign policy response.