The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised concerns that China may soon take over Nigerian assets due to recent dealings between the Enugu State government and Chinese companies. The group voiced alarm over an alleged Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, fearing it could jeopardize Nigeria’s assets if unresolved legal disputes over disputed land in Enugu continue.
HURIWA expressed deep concern over agreements allegedly made by Mbah with Chinese companies regarding ancestral lands in Ugwuaji Awkunanaw, despite ongoing court cases. The group warned that these actions could undermine the legal process, as the land is still under litigation.
Drawing a parallel to a previous case in Ogun State involving former Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun, HURIWA highlighted the potential for serious consequences. In Ogun, an agreement with a Chinese company without federal approval led to the seizure of Nigerian assets abroad, including three presidential aircraft. HURIWA cautioned that Enugu could face a similar fate if the governor’s actions lead to international arbitration, which might result in Chinese companies seizing Nigerian assets, such as embassy buildings in Beijing.
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HURIWA urged the Enugu State Government to refrain from moving forward with the MOU until the land disputes are settled. They warned that a repeat of the Ogun State incident could put Nigeria’s international assets at risk.
The group also called on the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to clarify whether President Bola Tinubu was aware of the MOU signed by Enugu State, especially since Governor Mbah’s visit to China coincided with the president’s trip, though Mbah was reportedly not part of the official delegation.
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Raphael Obasiohia