The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has shut down an Abuja-based Chinese supermarket for allegedly discriminating against Nigerians and restricting entry to only Chinese nationals. Following complaints and discreet investigations, the commission summoned the supermarket's owner to appear before it on Wednesday and warned of possible sanctions.
The controversial policy, which came to light through a viral video showing Nigerians being denied access to the supermarket, sparked outrage on social media. The supermarket, located along Airport Road, had implemented a directive barring non-Chinese individuals from patronizing the establishment.
During the commission's visit to the supermarket, it was discovered that the owner, Cindy Liu Bei, had fled with her family. The commission has since sealed the premises and issued a summons for Bei to appear before it. Failure to comply may result in further regulatory action.
The China General Chamber Of Commerce, which is in the same estate as the supermarket, denied any discrimination against Nigerians. The chamber clarified that the supermarket's policy was implemented for security reasons related to access to the residential area. The assistant Facility Manager also stated that the management was not aware of the discriminatory policy and would have taken action if they had known.
