Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights lawyer, has formally requested that the Federal Government apply economic sanctions against South African enterprises operating within Nigeria. This proposal follows ongoing reports of xenophobic violence and the systematic destruction of Nigerian-owned businesses in South Africa. Falana contends that conventional diplomatic complaints are insufficient and ineffective, as South Africa wields significant influence within the African Union, often preventing meaningful enforcement.
Highlighting the principle of reciprocity, Falana argues that Nigeria must take concrete actions to safeguard its nationals. He specifically encourages the public to shift away from South African brands, such as telecommunications provider MTN, in favor of local alternatives. Furthermore, he suggested that the government consider revoking mining licenses held by South African companies as a show of diplomatic strength. He referenced historical precedents, noting that Nigeria once nationalized British Petroleum in response to apartheid-era policies.
The lawyer also addressed domestic failures regarding human rights protections. He criticized the Nigerian government for its refusal to grant citizens access to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights by failing to submit the required legal instruments. According to Falana, if Nigeria enabled individuals to file petitions with this court, victims of xenophobia could hold South Africa accountable through legal channels similar to the existing options available via the ECOWAS Court.
