A Chinese-owned supermarket in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, has faced closure by authorities due to accusations of discriminatory practices, alleging that it only allows individuals of Chinese descent to enter the premises, as reported by Nigeria’s consumer protection agency.
The owner of the supermarket has been summoned to address the allegations. However, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria has refuted claims of racism.
The supermarket operates within a building managed by the China General Chamber of Commerce. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has initiated an investigation following widespread outcry on social media, where individuals shared experiences of being denied entry.
Videos circulating online show instances of Nigerian customers being prevented from accessing the supermarket, with reports suggesting that this practice has been ongoing since January.
Several Nigerians have demanded the closure of the supermarket, including former senator Shehu Sani, who said that any store in Nigeria that was not accessible to citizens “should be forcibly opened or be pulled down”.
In a statement quoted by local media, the CGCC said it stood for “equality and inclusiveness”.
“Our principles are to enhance friendship between the people of both countries and promote economic development,” it added.
The FCCPC cited a building administrator, Sanusi Shuabiu, who mentioned that the supermarket primarily stocked Chinese groceries. While initially catering to the building’s occupants, it later allowed entry to external shoppers, including those who were not of Chinese descent.
The owner of the supermarket has not provided any comments thus far and has been called upon to appear before the consumer protection agency by Wednesday.
The FCCPC has stated that the supermarket will remain shut until the owner complies with the summons.
Nigeria’s Chinese population is estimated to be less than 10,000, according to data from the Statista website.
