Minister of Interior Addresses Reported Shooting Incident Involving Chinese Company in Niger State
Minister of Interior Addresses Reported Shooting Incident Involving Chinese Company in Niger Stat
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has responded to media reports attributing definitive claims to him regarding an alleged shooting incident involving a Nigerian immigration officer and a Chinese-owned company in Niger State.
In a statement issued Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alao Babatunde, the Minister clarified that his earlier remarks at a Stakeholders’ Workshop on the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 in Abuja were intended to underscore the gravity of the allegations, not to preempt ongoing investigations.
During the workshop on Thursday, Tunji-Ojo had described the incident—where an immigration officer was reportedly struck by a stray bullet—as a “blatant violation of Nigeria’s sovereignty.” He vowed to escalate the matter diplomatically, stating, *“We are going to take it up with the Chinese embassy… No one will come from anywhere to shoot [our officers] in their fatherland.”*
The Minister emphasized the federal government’s commitment to immigration reforms, including automating visa “White, Grey, and Blacklists” to monitor and restrict foreign nationals posing security risks. He condemned the alleged actions of the company, stressing that such conduct would not be tolerated in any sovereign nation.
However, Babatunde later clarified that Tunji-Ojo’s statements were rooted in preliminary reports and should not be interpreted as conclusive. *“The investigation remains ongoing, and the Ministry is collaborating with relevant agencies and stakeholders,”* he noted, adding that references to the company’s nationality were based on initial information and did not constitute an indictment.
The Minister reaffirmed his dedication to due process, the safety of law enforcement personnel, and Nigeria’s openness to foreign investments that comply with local laws. *“Government remains committed to fostering mutual partnerships that drive socioeconomic growth,”* the statement concluded.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
