A Chinese-owned supermarket in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, has been closed down by authorities following allegations of discrimination against African shoppers.
The supermarket reportedly only allowed individuals of Chinese descent to enter, sparking outrage on social media.
Nigeria’s consumer protection watchdog, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), has launched an investigation into the allegations. This action was taken after several Nigerians shared their experiences of being turned away by security when they tried to access the supermarket.
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, which oversees the building where the supermarket is located, has denied the racism allegations. They stated that the supermarket, which mainly sells Chinese groceries, was open to all shoppers, including non-Chinese visitors.
Despite the denial, a video posted on social media showed a man being denied entry to the supermarket because he was Nigerian. The security guard at the entrance allegedly informed a group of Nigerians that the supermarket had restricted access to non-Chinese shoppers since January.
Former senator Shehu Sani and other Nigerians have called for the closure of the supermarket, emphasizing that any store in Nigeria inaccessible to citizens should be forced to open or be shut down. The owner of the supermarket has been summoned to appear before the FCCPC by Wednesday and the store will remain closed until compliance is met.
The China General Chamber of Commerce, which runs the building where the supermarket is located, claimed to stand for equality and inclusiveness.
They aim to enhance friendship between the people of both countries and promote economic development.
