The consumer protection agency in Nigeria has directed the shutdown of a Chinese-owned supermarket in Abuja due to accusations of racial discrimination.
According to reports, the supermarket allegedly only allows people of Chinese origin to enter, causing anger and frustration among Nigerian residents.
In response to the uproar on social media, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has called upon the supermarket owner to undergo an investigation.
Furthermore, many Nigerians shared videos online detailing their encounters with being denied entry by security staff at the supermarket’s main entry point.
There is a Chinese supermarket in Nigeria that Nigerian customers aren't allowed to enter.
Only Chinese customers are allegedly allowed to shop at the supermarket since January 2024. pic.twitter.com/nkbHHeuKAb
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) April 22, 2024
Also, Shehu Sani, a former senator, echoed the calls for closure, saying that any store that Nigerian citizens couldn’t visit should be forced to open or destroyed.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, in response, denied the racism allegations, emphasising their commitment to equality and inclusiveness. However, the FCCPC remains firm, demanding compliance from the supermarket’s owner, who has been summoned to appear before the agency.
According to a BBC report, the Chamber 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.
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The recent controversy has brought attention to the issue of discrimination and fair access to commercial establishments in Nigeria.
As the supermarket remains closed pending the owner’s response, the incident highlights the significance of providing equal treatment to all customers, irrespective of their nationality or ethnic background.