By Atoyebi Nike
The House of Representatives Committee on China-Nigeria Parliamentary Relations has launched an investigation into a viral video showing Nigerian workers stranded in the Central African Republic (CAR), allegedly abandoned by a Nigerian businessman linked to a Chinese firm.
The committee’s chairman, Jaafaru Yakubu, described the incident as unfortunate and assured Nigerians of a thorough probe to ensure accountability.
In the video, the workers claimed their passports were seized, their wages unpaid, and they were left in harsh conditions in a remote part of CAR.
Yakubu clarified that the accused businessman, Abdulrauf Ademola, has no ties to the Chinese Embassy or the China General Chamber of Commerce, urging the media to report China-Nigeria relations accurately and responsibly.
Ademola has since denied all allegations, including claims of abandonment and exploitation.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the workers’ rescue on Tuesday. Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said they are now in the custody of the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui. He praised the embassy officials and CAR authorities for facilitating the successful operation.
