Chinese Embassy reacts to allegations of abuse against Nigerian Workers in CAR

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has responded with caution to allegations made by 12 Nigerian workers who were recently rescued from the Central African Republic (CAR), accusing their Chinese employers of sexual abuse and non-payment of salaries.

In a statement shared with Newsman early Saturday, a Chinese official said the Embassy has taken note of the reports and attaches great importance to the issue.

The Embassy assured that an investigation will be carried out immediately, stressing that due process will be followed before any conclusions are drawn.

The Embassy stated: “We have also just noted the relevant reports and attach great importance to this matter. We will immediately commence an investigation. Before the investigation results are released, we request that the information not be disseminated or cited. The Chinese Government consistently requires all Chinese citizens abroad to comply with the laws and regulations of their host countries and conduct business activities by all applicable rules and requirements.”

The reaction comes after the Nigerian workers, who returned to the country last week, shared distressing accounts of abuse, starvation, and withheld wages under their Chinese mining employers in CAR.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), which received the returnees in Abuja, has vowed to seek justice for them. Meanwhile, the Embassy noted that the outcome of its investigation will determine the next line of action.