Kalu Backs Tougher Anti-Terror Measures, Condemns Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians in South Africa

By Ranmilowo Ojalumo.    -Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has called for a tougher national response to insecurity, urging the Federal Government to end the rehabilitation of convicted terrorists and instead ensure their immediate prosecution in accordance with the law.

Kalu made the remarks in a statement posted on his social media platforms after Tuesday’s Senate proceedings, where lawmakers deliberated on issues bordering on national security and the recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.

According to the senator, he aligned with the position of the Senate that convicted terrorists should no longer be rehabilitated but prosecuted without delay to serve as a deterrent to others.

“Today in the Senate, I aligned with the call of the Senate for a tougher response to insecurity by ending the rehabilitation of convicted terrorists and ensuring that those found guilty of terrorism and other violent crimes face immediate prosecution in accordance with the law,” Kalu stated.

He stressed that “justice must prevail, and the safety of Nigerians must remain our highest priority.”

The lawmaker also expressed concern over the recurring attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa, describing the incidents as unacceptable and calling for stronger action to safeguard Nigerian citizens abroad.

Kalu said he joined his colleagues in condemning the persistent xenophobic attacks, noting that while diplomacy should remain Nigeria’s first line of engagement, the country must be prepared to adopt firmer and more decisive measures if diplomatic efforts fail to protect its citizens.

“While diplomacy should always remain our first option, Nigeria must be prepared to take firmer and more decisive measures if continued engagement fails to guarantee the safety, dignity, and rights of our citizens,” he said.

Reflecting on the historical ties between the two countries, the senator recalled Nigeria’s significant role in supporting South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle.

“I recalled how Nigeria stood firmly with South Africa during its struggle against apartheid. It is therefore unacceptable that Nigerians are now being attacked, killed, and dispossessed of their businesses and properties,” he added.

Kalu, however, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs for what he described as their measured response to the situation, particularly the evacuation of affected Nigerians.

He further called on the South African government to ensure the protection of Nigerians residing in the country, prosecute those responsible for the attacks, and provide adequate compensation to victims.

“Nigeria deserves security at home and respect abroad,” the senator declared.