….Forum Insists July 31 Deadline for Action Remains Sacrosanct
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, Senator Aniekan Etim Bassey, has held a high-level meeting with the Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) following the Forum’s ultimatum to South Africans residing in Nigeria over the persistent xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
The engagement, which took place at the National Assembly, Abuja, followed a formal letter submitted by the Forum to the Senate Committee outlining its concerns over the recurring attacks and demanding decisive action from the Nigerian government. The letter prompted Senator Bassey to invite the Forum for direct consultations.
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Leading the delegation, the Chairman of the Forum and National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Hon. Eze Onyebuchi, commended Senator Bassey for initiating the dialogue and for the Senate’s concern over the welfare of Nigerians in the Diaspora.
He, however, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the continued attacks on Nigerians, the destruction of their businesses and means of livelihood, and what he described as the inadequate urgency in addressing the situation. He further alleged that the perceived complicity of the South African government had strengthened the Forum’s resolve, stressing that the July 31, 2026 deadline remains unchanged.
“We appreciate this invitation, Mr. Chairman. It shows that our voices are being heard. But appreciation must translate into action. On behalf of Nigerian youths across all political parties, I state clearly that the Forum’s position stands: the July 31 deadline remains. We expect concrete diplomatic, legal and protective measures for Nigerians in South Africa on or before that date,” Onyebuchi said.
The Forum reiterated its demands, including immediate and firm diplomatic action by the Federal Government against the South African government, adequate compensation and restitution for Nigerians affected by the attacks, enhanced consular protection through the Nigerian Mission in Pretoria, and the intervention of the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address the growing trend of Afrophobia across the continent.
Responding, Senator Aniekan Etim Bassey commended the Forum for demonstrating patriotism and pursuing its concerns through peaceful and democratic channels.
The Senator outlined measures already being taken by the Federal Government, including the provision of evacuation assistance, medical and financial support for affected Nigerians, as well as ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at securing compensation and ensuring the protection of Nigerian citizens in South Africa.
He assured the delegation that the Senate Committee on Diaspora and relevant government agencies remain fully committed to pursuing lasting solutions and will continue to engage all necessary stakeholders to address the concerns raised.
The Forum, however, maintained that it would closely monitor developments and review its next line of action after the expiration of the July 31, 2026 deadline.
