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FCCPC Summons Chinese Supermarket Owner Over Discrimination Allegations

The case involving the alleged discriminatory practices of the Chinese supermarket in Abuja carries significant implications on multiple fronts. Firstly, if proven true, the shop owners could face legal consequences under Nigerian law, potentially leading to fines, business closure, or other sanctions. Secondly, the incident may impact diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, highlighting the need for both countries to address concerns regarding the treatment of Nigerian citizens by Chinese businesses.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 23, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

FCCPC Summons Chinese Supermarket Owner Over Discrimination Allegations

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council (FCCPC) has taken swift action against a Chinese supermarket in Abuja following allegations of discrimination against Nigerian shoppers. Officials from the FCCPC shut down the supermarket on Monday after it was criticised for reportedly denying Nigerians entry.

Situated at the China General Chamber of Commerce along Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Road in the Federal Capital Territory, the supermarket is known for its Chinese cuisine and beverages.

Outrage Over Discrimination Against Nigerians at Abuja Chinese Supermarket.

Speaking to reporters after the closure, Boladale Adeyinka, Director of Surveillance and Enforcement at the FCCPC, revealed that the owner of the facility, Cindy Liu Bei, and her family had fled the premises upon the arrival of FCCPC officials.

Chinese Supermarket Accused of Preventing Nigerians’ Access Faces Regulatory Action

The enforcement team issued a summons to Bei, giving her 48 hours to report to the FCCPC office.

Adeyinka stated, “The mission of the commission is in response to the video that went viral when consumers, particularly Nigerian consumers, were allegedly being discriminated against and prevented from accessing a supermarket located in Abuja, Nigeria.”

In a separate development, the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria responded to the viral video, clarifying that the Royal Choice Estate, where the incident occurred, is not a supermarket but an office complex with residential apartments.

The Chamber emphasised that the supermarket in question operates within the residential area of the estate and is unrelated to the Chamber of Commerce.

**Invitation to Attend the National Summit on Justice 2024**

The Chamber expressed regret over an altercation at the estate’s entrance gate but clarified that no individual was subjected to discrimination or denied access to the estate or supermarket. It reaffirmed its commitment to equality and inclusiveness and welcomed visits to witness the truth firsthand.

The regulatory actions by the FCCPC and the response from the China General Chamber of Commerce reflect the ongoing efforts to address allegations of discrimination and uphold consumer rights in Nigeria.

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