Adams Oshiomhole demands action against MTN Nigeria⁠, DStv⁠ over xenophobic attacks on Nigerians

Former Edo State governor and senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has urged the Federal Government to take tough economic measures against South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.

Speaking during a Senate session where lawmakers debated the recurring attacks against Nigerians abroad, Oshiomhole specifically called for the withdrawal of operating licences issued to major South African companies, including telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria and pay television provider DStv.

The senator argued that Nigeria must begin to respond decisively to repeated incidents of violence, intimidation and discrimination allegedly targeted at Nigerians in South Africa.

According to him, it was unacceptable for South African companies to continue making huge profits from Nigeria while Nigerians residing in their home country face hostility and threats.

Oshiomhole stated during the debate:

 “If you hit me, I’ll hit you. It’s an economic struggle.”

He maintained that Nigeria possesses significant economic influence on the African continent and should not hesitate to use that leverage to protect its citizens and national dignity.

The former president of the Nigeria Labour Congress also suggested that the Nigerian government should consider nationalising some South African businesses operating in the country if the attacks continue unchecked.

The debate at the Senate followed renewed concerns over xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where foreign nationals, including Nigerians, have repeatedly complained of harassment, attacks and discrimination over the years.

Xenophobic violence in South Africa has remained a major diplomatic concern between both countries since large-scale attacks against African migrants were first reported more than a decade ago. Nigerians have often been among the victims of the unrest, leading to protests and diplomatic engagements between Abuja and Pretoria.

Recent reports indicate that several Nigerians living in South Africa have expressed fear over renewed threats, while some have reportedly sought evacuation assistance from Nigerian authorities.

Although Oshiomhole’s comments generated reactions within political and business circles, the Federal Government has not announced any official plan to ban or sanction MTN Nigeria or DStv.

Both companies remain among the biggest South African investments in Nigeria, employing thousands of Nigerians and serving millions of customers across the country.

Observers say any move to revoke the licences of the firms could have major economic and diplomatic consequences for relations between Nigeria and South Africa.