Xenophobia: Oshiomhole urges FG to revoke MTN, DSTV licences over attacks

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

Speaking during plenary, the Edo North lawmaker urged a tougher response, stressing that Nigeria must act decisively to protect its citizens.

He said: “I don’t want this Senate to be shedding tears, to sympathise with those who have died. We didn’t come here to share tears.”

He added: “If you hit me, I’ll hit you.

“I think it is appropriate in diplomacy. It’s an economic struggle.”

Oshiomhole proposed the nationalisation of MTN, arguing that the company repatriates significant revenue while Nigerians face hostility abroad.

He said: “This Senate should adopt a position that MTN, a South African company that is cutting away millions of dollars from Nigeria every day.

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“That Nigeria nationalise it and withdraw its licence.”

He also called for action against DSTV, alleging economic exploitation.

He said: “I call on the Federal Government to revoke DSTV, which is also a South African company that is cutting away millions of dollars.”

The senator linked the attacks to political rhetoric in South Africa and insisted Nigeria must respond strongly to defend its nationals.

He said: “These Nigerians who are in South Africa, they are not there on holiday.

“They are there to work and to earn.

“When we hit back, the president of South Africa will go on his knees to recognise that Nigerians cannot be intimidated.”

Senator Victor Umeh also raised concerns over the safety of Nigerians, describing the situation as alarming.

He said: “It is worrisome… they are hiding for their lives, they can’t move freely. 

“This is a situation where people are paying good with evil.”

Umeh urged the African Union to intervene and impose sanctions.

He said: “The AU, of which South Africa is a member, should raise now and impose necessary sanctions.

“We cannot allow this to continue.”

The House of Representatives had earlier condemned the attacks and called for immediate diplomatic and protective measures, as pressure mounts on the Federal Government to respond.

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