Stakeholders Slam Nigerian Government Over Seizure of Presidential Jets by French Court

 

Nigerians have expressed outrage following the seizure of three presidential jets by a French court, which acted on an injunction secured by a Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited. The court's decision has sparked widespread criticism, with stakeholders labeling it an "international disgrace" that highlights the Nigerian government's negligence and incompetence.

Background: Chinese Firm Secures Court Injunction

The legal dispute stems from a revoked contract between Zhongshan and the Ogun State Government. In 2016, the Ogun State government terminated an agreement with Zhongshan's parent company that aimed to develop the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone. The termination led to a lawsuit, with the Chinese firm seeking compensation. After pursuing legal action in various Nigerian courts, Zhongshan eventually took the case to a UK court, which awarded the company $74.5 million in damages.

As part of its enforcement strategy, Zhongshan secured a court order in France to seize Nigerian assets, including a Dassault Falcon 7X, a Boeing 737, and an Airbus A330, collectively valued at over $100 million. Two of these jets were undergoing maintenance in Switzerland at the time of the seizure. The Chinese firm has reportedly prepared to seize more Nigerian assets in six other countries, including the United States, Belgium, Canada, and Singapore.

Reactions from Stakeholders: Condemnation and Criticism

Paul Ibe: An Embarrassment to Nigeria

Paul Ibe, spokesperson for former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, condemned the government's handling of the situation. He described the seizure as a national embarrassment, particularly given reports that one of the jets was recently purchased without legislative oversight. Ibe criticized the government for its apparent disregard for the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians, accusing officials of prioritizing their own comfort over governance.

He further expressed concerns about Nigeria's growing reliance on loans, warning that continuous borrowing from China could eventually lead to the seizure of more national assets.

HURIWA: A Monumental Disgrace

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also criticized the government's negligence, calling the seizure a "monumental disgrace." Emmanuel Onwubiko, the association's National Coordinator, argued that the incident exposed the government's incompetence and failure to uphold international agreements. Onwubiko called for accountability, stating that those responsible for the mishandling of the situation should resign or be dismissed.

He also demanded an investigation into allegations that Chinese officials were tortured by Nigerian police during the contractual dispute. Onwubiko insisted that the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State at the time should be arrested and prosecuted if found culpable.

Arewa Youths: Impact on Investor Confidence

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) expressed concerns about the potential impact of the incident on foreign investment in Nigeria. AYCF National President Yerima Shettima warned that the seizure of national assets could undermine investor confidence and portray Nigeria as an unstable and unpredictable business environment. He emphasized the need for Nigeria to strengthen its legal frameworks and institutions to prevent such occurrences in the future.

APC Chieftain: Blame the Previous Governments

In contrast, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Terzulum Samuel, placed the blame for the asset seizure on previous governments led by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Samuel argued that the current administration should not be held responsible for agreements made by the Ogun State government during past administrations. He expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu's government would resolve the issue but urged Nigerians to stop criticizing the current administration unjustly.

Conclusion: A National Embarrassment with Far-Reaching Implications

The seizure of Nigeria's presidential jets by a foreign court has ignited a firestorm of criticism and raised serious questions about the government's handling of international agreements. As stakeholders from various sectors voice their concerns, the incident underscores the need for greater accountability, improved governance, and more robust legal frameworks to protect Nigeria's assets and international reputation.

This incident not only tarnishes Nigeria's image on the global stage but also serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of mismanaged contracts and the importance of upholding the rule of law in international business dealings.

Stay informed with Naija Newshawk for more updates on this developing story and its implications for Nigeria's international standing and governance.