By Stephen Okeke
Former Edo State governor and senator representing Edo
North, Adams Oshiomhole, sparked fresh debate on Tuesday after calling for
tougher action against South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria over
repeated attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.
Speaking during a tense television interview, Oshiomhole
argued that Nigeria must stop putting business interests ahead of the safety
and dignity of its citizens. He said the continued killings and harassment of
Nigerians in South Africa should force the Nigerian government to reconsider
the presence and control of South African companies in the country.
The senator specifically referred to telecommunications
giant MTN, saying Nigerians should gradually take over ownership of the
company. According to him, local investors who already own shares in the
business could retain them while South African control is removed.
Oshiomhole suggested that the company could be restructured
in a way that keeps its operations in Nigeria but prevents profits from being
moved back to South Africa.
He blamed rising xenophobia in South Africa partly on
economic pressure and unemployment, recalling comments allegedly made during
the political campaign of South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, about
foreigners taking jobs meant for South Africans.
According to Oshiomhole, frustration over unemployment has
pushed some South Africans to direct anger towards other Africans, especially
Nigerians.
“Human life should come before profit,” the senator
insisted, arguing that Nigeria must not continue welcoming investors who fail
to speak strongly against violence targeting Nigerians abroad.
However, the remarks quickly drew sharp reaction from Arise
Television presenter, Rufai Oseni, who questioned the implications of such a
move on Nigeria’s investment image.
Rufai challenged the senator’s position, warning that the
idea of taking over foreign-owned businesses could frighten away investors at a
time when Nigeria is actively seeking foreign direct investment.
The broadcaster asked how international companies would feel
safe investing in Nigeria if their businesses could be threatened whenever
diplomatic tensions arise between countries.
Their exchange soon turned into a fiery debate, with both
men strongly defending their views on national interest, economic protection
and the growing concern over xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South
Africa.
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