Nigeria's Parliament Halts Official Engagements With South Africa Over Anti-Migrant Violence

Nigeria's National Assembly has suspended official visits to South Africa indefinitely, responding to a wave of anti-immigrant violence that has targeted other Africans in the country.

The decision was conveyed in a statement by Kamoru Ogunlana, clerk to the National Assembly, who said the parliament was "particularly concerned by reports of Nigerians being killed, injured, displaced and forced to abandon their businesses, investments, homes and other properties as a result of recurring violent attacks."

Ogunlana described the suspension as a "strong expression" of concern for the safety and welfare of Nigerians living and running legitimate businesses in South Africa.

The protests, which broke out earlier this year, have driven thousands of migrants to leave South Africa and strained diplomatic relations with several African governments.

South Africa has long drawn migrants from across the continent, including many Nigerians, attracted by its comparatively strong economy and opportunities. Yet foreigners have repeatedly faced sporadic outbreaks of xenophobic violence, with protesters blaming them for high unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.

In June, two Nigerians were killed during anti-migrant violence, two days before an unofficial deadline set by protesters for foreigners to leave. Nigeria's foreign ministry said one of the victims was allegedly killed by police officers and the other by unidentified attackers.

According to South African government figures, nearly 90,000 people have been voluntarily repatriated or deported since the migration tensions began. Figures released by the governments of migrants' home countries, however, put the total at about 178,000.