The House of Representatives has called for a full investigation into the deaths, losses and abandoned properties of Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

Lawmakers urged the Federal Government to step up diplomatic efforts with South Africa, pursue legal action where necessary and strengthen measures to protect Nigerians living in the country.

The House also directed its Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document the human and economic impact of the attacks, compile an inventory of abandoned properties and recommend measures to improve the safety of Nigerians abroad.

The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson (Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Lagos) and adopted during Tuesday’s plenary, with lawmakers stressing that a detailed assessment would help support victims and prevent similar incidents in the future.