BREAKING: We Should Behave As More Civilised People. We Shouldn’t kill, We Shouldn’t Burn — Adams Oshiomhole

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Former Edo State Governor and Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on Nigerians to use legal means to seize South African business interests operating in Nigeria, in a strong reaction to renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa.

Oshiomhole, who represented Edo North Senatorial District, made the remarks amid rising tension between Nigeria and South Africa over the treatment of Nigerian nationals on South African soil. Rather than advocate violence, the former governor urged restraint while pushing for decisive economic retaliation through lawful channels.

“We should behave as more civilised people. We shouldn’t kill, we shouldn’t maim, we shouldn’t burn, but we follow the law,” Oshiomhole stated.

The senator went further to call for the takeover of South African-owned commercial assets in Nigeria, arguing that the law provides a legitimate framework for such action.

“The law allows us to take over. That portion that is still held by South African citizens should be taken and managed by Nigerians,” he declared.

His comments reflect growing frustration among Nigerian politicians and citizens over the recurring pattern of xenophobic violence directed at Nigerians living and doing business in South Africa. Several major South African retail and telecommunications brands maintain a significant presence across Nigeria, and calls to target those interests economically have intensified in recent weeks.

Oshiomhole’s position signals that legislative and governmental pressure may be brought to bear on South African businesses operating within Nigeria’s borders if the attacks persist.

The reaction was contained in a post shared on Channels Television’s official X handle on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.