By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
FG Seals Chinese supermarket for discrimination against Nigerians
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has shut down an Abuja-based Chinese supermarket for discriminating against Nigerians and allowing only Chinese nationals to enter.
The commission summoned the owner of the supermarket along Airport Road to appear before it on Wednesday, promising to take regulatory action against the management.
Following complaints from Nigerians about discriminatory practices, the commission launched investigations and decided to take swift action.
If found guilty, the operator of the supermarket could face sanctions, according to officials.
Reporters revealed that the supermarket implemented a controversial policy restricting entry solely to Chinese nationals, sparking widespread condemnation on social media platforms.
Commission officials, led by the Director for Surveillance and Investigation, Boladale Adeyinka, visited the premises to verify the allegations and investigate the discriminatory practices.
Adeyinka confirmed that the owner, identified as Cindy Liu Bei, had fled with her family on Monday morning, prompting the commission to seal the premises.
She stated that the owner must appear before the commission by Wednesday or face further regulatory action.
The supermarket remained closed throughout the day, with heavy security presence observed by officials from the Department of State Security.
Responding to the claims, the China General Chamber Of Commerce denied allegations of discrimination, stating that no individual was denied access to the supermarket.
The chamber clarified that the residential area where the supermarket is located adheres to strict security protocols, and any altercations at the entrance gate did not reflect the official position of the estate management.
The assistant Facility Manager affirmed that there were no discriminatory policies against Nigerians and expressed regret over the incident.
He stated that the management was not aware of any policy barring Nigerians from entering the store and claimed that the owners were tenants in the building.
The China General Chamber Of Commerce reiterated its commitment to equality and inclusiveness, inviting visits to witness the truth.
A Chinese official from the Embassy in Abuja acknowledged the complexity of the situation and emphasized that the behaviour of individuals should not reflect on all Chinese nationals.
In conclusion, the incident highlights the need for mutual understanding and fairness in addressing unique challenges faced by different countries.
Discrimination, Supermarket