In a recent press statement, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, the legal representative of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, voiced strong criticism against the Federal Government following the international seizure of three Presidential jets belonging to Nigeria.
Ejiofor characterized the incident as a global disgrace and shame, highlighting that Nigerians are now fully aware that the country’s sovereignty is facing serious challenges, particularly with mounting debt issues.
The seizure of the presidential jets occurred on August 15 by a French court due to a contractual dispute between the Ogun State Government and a Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited.
Originating from a 2007 agreement for a free trade zone development that later collapsed, the disagreement led to arbitration and ultimately the confiscation of the jets.
Despite an arbitral tribunal awarding Zhongshan around $74.5 million, the Ogun State Government has contested the decision and has yet to comply with the ruling.
Expressing his dismay at the unacceptable situation, Ejiofor regretted the lack of attention from Nigerians towards this looming crisis.
Ejiofor’s statement conveyed, “It is evident that Nigeria’s sovereignty is at grave risk due to mounting debt concerns. Regrettably, the Nigerian populace seems indifferent to this impending catastrophe.”
He continued, “On August 15, 2024, three presidential planes undergoing maintenance in Paris were briefly seized following a court directive. What a disgrace on the international stage!
“It is concerning that with the Nigerian government’s increasing pattern of excessive and irresponsible borrowing, it is becoming more probable that Nigeria’s assets and the entire citizenry might one day become subject to foreign judgments. The countdown has begun!”