Alarm Raised Over Potential Seizure of Nigerian Assets Following Southeast Governor’s China Deal

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarm over a potential takeover of Nigerian assets by China, following a deal between the Enugu State Government and Chinese companies.

At the centre of the controversy is an alleged Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, which HURIWA claims undermines the rule of law and puts Nigerian assets at risk.

According to HURIWA, the MOU allegedly gives away ownership of ancestral lands in Ugwuaji Awkunanaw to Chinese companies, despite ongoing litigation over the land.

This move has raised concerns that Chinese companies could seize Nigerian assets internationally, including embassy buildings in Beijing, if court rulings favour the original landowners.

The rights group draws parallels to a similar incident in Ogun State, where the state government’s transaction with a Chinese company without federal authorization led to the seizure of Nigerian assets abroad, including three presidential aircraft.

“The fallout led to the seizure of Nigerian assets abroad, including three presidential aircraft,” HURIWA recalled, adding that “Enugu could face a similar fate if Governor Mbah’s actions result in future arbitration.”

“Chinese companies could seize Nigerian assets internationally, such as embassy buildings in Beijing, if the court rulings favour the original landowners.

“The Enugu State Government should refrain from taking action on these lands until the legal disputes are resolved.

“If the governor proceeds with this transaction, Nigeria could face another embarrassing situation similar to that in Ogun State, where foreign companies confiscated Nigerian assets.

“Enugu State does not have any assets abroad, so it will be Nigeria’s international assets that will be at risk,” a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko said.