NCSCN Commends China, Withdraws Ultimatum over Visa Controversy

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has withdrawn the 48-hour ultimatum earlier issued to the Chinese Government over alleged visa denial and conspiracy against the CEO of New Age Mobile Concepts Limited, Mr Kingsley Okpala.

The NCSCN had on December 28, 2023, held a world press conference and Media rally, calling the Chinese government over alleged visa denial and business conspiracy against a young Nigerian businessmen, Mr Kingsley Okpala as well as other unjust business activities and dealings between the Chinese and some Nigerians.

However, speaking at the Chinese Embassy in Abuja Tuesday, the Executive Secretary, NCSCN, Dr. Raymond Edoh the prompt actions taken by the Chinese Government on the said matter, after the complainant Mr Kingsley Okpala reached out to the Council to relay the outcome of meeting with the Embassy of the Asian country and the amicable steps being taken to find solution to the issues in question.

He said, “ Your Excellency will recall our letter dated December 28, 2023, with reference number: NCSCN/HQ/ABJ/2023/12/022 signed by the Executive Director and Executive Secretary respectively.

He said: “We wish to convey our gratitude for your kind and prompt response to the matter in less than 12 hours of receipt of our letter.

“This has gone a long way towards showcasing the responsiveness and responsibility of the Chinese Government to the relationship shared with the people and Government of Nigeria. NCSCN highly appreciates this positive development, Your Excellency.

“The complainant has reached out to us after a meeting with the Chinese Consulate General at the embassy and briefed us of the outcome and amicable steps being taken to find solution to the issues therein, which sheds light of hope and satisfaction on the side of the civil society community of Nigeria.”

Edoh reaffirmed the job of the civil society community, saying, “ We are watchdogs. We will continue to watch the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and not just them, every other country that is unjust to our citizens will be looked into.

“We have so many of them also that we will be bringing. I will let you the media know that there are too many complaints we have on our decks. And if the Chinese Embassy are not able to resolve this, we will come back again.”