The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has issued a cautious response to allegations made by 12 Nigerian workers recently rescued from the Central African Republic (CAR), who accused their Chinese employers of s#xu@l abuse and non-payment of salaries.
The claims, which have sparked widespread media attention, prompted a statement from the Embassy in the early hours of Saturday, August 16, 2025.
A Chinese official, speaking to Vanguard, confirmed that the Embassy is treating the allegations with utmost seriousness.
“We attach great importance to this matter and will investigate thoroughly to ensure due process is followed,” the official stated, emphasizing the Embassy’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the rescued workers.
The 12 Nigerians, repatriated from CAR following their ordeal, alleged that their Chinese employers subjected them to s#xu@l abuse and withheld their salaries during their time working in the conflict-ridden country.
Nigerian authorities is yet to issue an official response, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to engage with the Chinese Embassy to ensure the welfare of the affected workers and address the allegations.
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 arrived back in the country last week, narrated harrowing experiences of abuse, starvation, and non-payment of wages at the hands of Chinese mining employers in CAR.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), which received the workers in Abuja, has pledged to pursue justice for them, while the Embassy maintained that the outcome of the investigation will guide further action.
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