Abuja-based Chinese supermarket owner, Liu Bei, has refuted media reports alleging that she denied Nigerians access to the facility to purchase groceries.
Recall that a viral video posted by some online media outlet had alleged that a Nigerian who tried to gain access to the premises was denied because Nigerians are not allowed to shop in the supermarket only Chinese.
But in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday, Liu clarified that her shop primarily serves residents and individuals working within the Royal Choice Estate – which houses Chinese offices and residential quarters. She further stated that her retail store also accommodates visitors coming to the estate for official purposes, irrespective of their nationality.
She noted that she does not discriminate against Nigerians and has several local employees in her store. Madam Liu explained that safety regulations within the community necessitate specific requirements for visitors, which restrict direct access for everyone.
She clarified that the retail store is not a supermarket like other large grocery stores and revealed plans to stop operations after downsizing in December 2023.
Meanwhile, the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria has reacted to a viral video alleging that a Chinese supermarket within the premises of the Royal Choice Estate, Airport Road, Abuja, denied access to Nigerians seeking to purchase groceries.
The secretary-General of the Chamber, Cui Guanzhen in a statement said the estate is not a supermarket as widely reported, but rather comprises an office complex and residential apartments.
“The China Chamber of Commerce is one of several enterprises using the facility, and the supermarket in question is located in the residential area of the estate, which is unrelated to the China Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria,” the statement said.
According to the statement, the residential area of the estate consists of privately occupied residents who adhere to security protocols in granting access to external visitors. The statement also stated that no individual was subjected to discrimination or denied access to the estate or supermarket to purchase groceries as widely believed.
Furthermore, the statement expressed regret over the altercation at the estate’s entrance gate between the security personnel and a customer, emphasizing that it does not reflect the official position of the estate management or the chamber of commerce.
The China General Chamber of Commerce emphasized its commitment to equality and inclusiveness and welcomed first-hand visits to witness the truth.
“Our principles are to enhance friendship between the people of both countries and promote economic development,” the statement added.
