Chinese Chamber Denies Involvement In Shooting Of Nigerian Immigration Officer

Chinese Chamber Denies Involvement In Shooting Of Nigerian Immigration Officer

The China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria has firmly denied any involvement of its members in the shooting of an immigration officer in Niger State.

This clarification follows accusations by Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who alleged that a Chinese company had instructed the police to shoot the immigration officer—an assertion that has led to growing diplomatic tensions…READ MORE….

In a statement issued late Thursday and signed by Dr. Cui Guangzhen, Director General of the China General Chamber of Commerce, the organization refuted the allegations, stressing that no Chinese entity or individual was involved in the incident.

“Our attention has been drawn to reports regarding the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’s condemnation of the shooting, allegedly ordered by a Chinese company, during a briefing on March 27,” the statement began.

“The China General Chamber of Commerce took immediate action and launched an investigation upon receiving the report. According to findings from Niger State police authorities, the incident occurred on February 21, 2025, in Minna, Niger State. During an operation to arrest suspects accused of stealing building materials from a Chinese firm, police officers encountered resistance. In the process, a police officer discharged his firearm, and the bullet inadvertently struck a passerby, who was later identified as an immigration officer.”

The statement went on to assert that neither Chinese citizens nor companies were involved in the incident and dismissed the claim that a Chinese company employee had ordered the shooting as entirely false.

“Chinese companies operating in Nigeria adhere to Nigerian laws and remain committed to contributing to the country’s economic and social progress,” the statement continued. “The China General Chamber of Commerce is deeply saddened by the incident and extends its best wishes for the injured officer’s swift recovery.”

At the time of reporting, it was still unclear what measures would be taken to address the diplomatic tensions between China and Nigeria, which share significant economic ties.