Senator Abdul Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central in the National Assembly, has called on the Federal Government to take a firmer stance against the recurring xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa, including suspending diplomatic relations between both countries.

The lawmaker made the appeal on Tuesday during plenary at the Senate, where he expressed concern over the continued violence targeting Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa.

According to Ningi, repeated attacks on Nigerians have persisted over the years without what he considers an adequate response from South African authorities. He argued that stronger diplomatic measures are necessary to demonstrate Nigeria's commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.

The senator lamented that many Nigerians have reportedly lost their lives in successive xenophobic incidents, insisting that verbal condemnation alone is no longer sufficient.

He noted that reports indicated more than 1,200 Nigerians had already been evacuated from South Africa following the latest wave of violence, describing the development as deeply troubling.

Ningi criticised what he described as the South African government's limited response to the attacks, saying cautionary statements alone were not enough to address the situation or prevent further violence.

He also questioned the manner in which some Nigerians were allegedly attacked, saying no individual deserves to be subjected to mob violence, regardless of any allegations against them.

According to the senator, even where criminal offences are suspected, those accused should be allowed to face the legal process rather than becoming victims of extrajudicial killings.

Drawing a comparison with other countries, Ningi said governments have a responsibility to protect their citizens both at home and abroad, adding that Nigeria should demonstrate the same level of commitment in defending the rights and safety of its nationals wherever they may be.

He therefore urged the Federal Government to adopt stronger diplomatic measures that would compel meaningful action and help safeguard Nigerians living and conducting legitimate businesses in foreign countries.