Nigerian Ex-Governor Blasts Chinese Firm Over Presidential Jet Seizure
Ibikunle Amosun, the former governor of Ogun State in Nigeria, has slammed Zhongfu International Investment FXE, the Chinese firm that seized Nigeria’s presidential jets, describing it as an “impostor” that sought to de-market its business rival, China Africa Investment FXE, and covert state-owned assets.
According to Amosun, the dispute between the two Chinese companies began in 2011, when both firms laid claim to management rights over the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ). The former governor stated that the business dispute became fierce, grounded seamless business activities, and threatened public peace and safety within the zone and neighboring communities.
Amosun disclosed that the dispute was settled with the intervention of the Chinese Government via Diplomatic Note 1601 in 2016, which clarified that China Africa Investment FXE was the rightful investor. The former governor also revealed that Zhongfu International Investment FXE had lost all four of its court cases and was served with a formal termination notice in 2016.
Despite the settlement, Zhongfu International Investment FXE continued to dispute the outcome, approaching various courts and government agencies, including the presidency, attorney general, and inspector general of police. Amosun’s administration defended its actions at all levels, and the relevant organs of government agreed with their position.
The former governor clarified that his administration did not dispatch security personnel to beat or threaten anyone, and expressed his readiness to work with government agencies to ensure that Nigeria is not scammed by Zhongfu International Investment FXE or any other entity.
The controversy surrounding Zhongfu International Investment FXE’s seizure of Nigeria’s presidential jets has sparked concerns about the integrity of the Chinese firm and its motives in Nigeria. The incident highlights the importance of thorough due diligence and scrutiny in business dealings, particularly when involving foreign entities.
