The China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria has denied any involvement of its members in the shooting of an immigration officer in Niger State.
This clarification follows accusations made by Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who claimed that a Chinese firm had ordered the police to shoot the officer—a statement that has led to growing diplomatic tensions.
In a statement released and signed by Dr. Cui Guangzhen, Director General of the China General Chamber of Commerce, the organization refuted the allegations, emphasizing that neither Chinese companies nor citizens were involved in the incident.
The statement noted that the incident, which took place on February 21, 2025, in Minna, Niger State, occurred while police were attempting to arrest individuals suspected of stealing building materials from a Chinese firm. During the operation, the police faced resistance, and in the ensuing confrontation, a police officer accidentally discharged his firearm, striking a passerby, who was later identified as an immigration officer.
The China General Chamber of Commerce strongly rejected the claim that an employee of a Chinese company had ordered the shooting, calling the allegation “utterly false.” The statement also reaffirmed that Chinese companies operating in Nigeria respect Nigerian laws and are committed to contributing to the country’s economic and social development. The Chamber expressed regret over the incident and wished the injured officer a swift recovery.
As of now, it remains unclear what actions will be taken to address the diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and China, two nations with significant economic ties.
