By George Omagbemi Sylvester
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has taken steps to address rising xenophobic attacks against West African citizens in South Africa, calling for investigation, accountability, and stronger regional protection mechanisms.
The development was reported on May 8, 2026, during the first ordinary session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, where lawmakers expressed concern over repeated attacks targeting Nigerians, Ghanaians, and other ECOWAS nationals living in South Africa.
According to parliamentary proceedings, lawmakers approved a motion mandating its Committee on Political Affairs to investigate recent incidents and recommend practical measures to safeguard citizens under the ECOWAS free movement protocol.
The proposal followed submissions by Ghanaian MP and Third Deputy Speaker Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who highlighted both insecurity in parts of the Sahel and growing xenophobic violence in South Africa affecting West African migrants.
Lawmakers noted that several attacks in cities such as Pretoria, Cape Town, and KwaZulu-Natal have raised alarm across the region, with victims reportedly including traders, workers, and students from multiple ECOWAS member states.
The Parliament is expected to present a detailed report and recommendations in upcoming sessions as regional pressure mounts for stronger diplomatic and legal responses to the recurring violence.
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