The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised concerns about a controversial memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the Enugu State government and a Chinese company, warning that it could lead to the takeover of Nigerian assets by China.
The MoU reportedly transfers ancestral lands in Ugwuaji Awkunanaw to Chinese companies, despite ongoing litigation over these lands. HURIWA argues that this deal undermines the rule of law and jeopardizes Nigerian assets.
If a court ruling favors the original landowners, HURIWA warns that the Chinese companies could attempt to seize Nigerian assets internationally, including embassy buildings in Beijing.
The organization has urged the Enugu government to avoid actions that could further embarrass the country, citing a similar incident in Ogun State where a transaction with a Chinese company without federal authorization led to the seizure of Nigerian assets abroad, including three presidential aircraft.
HURIWA emphasized, “Enugu could face a similar fate if Governor Mbah’s actions lead to future arbitration.” They reiterated that “the Enugu State Government should refrain from taking action on these lands until the legal disputes are resolved.”
“If the governor proceeds with this transaction, Nigeria could encounter another embarrassing situation akin to that in Ogun State, where foreign companies confiscated Nigerian assets. While Enugu State does not have assets abroad, it is Nigeria’s international assets that would be at risk,” stated Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA’s National Coordinator.
