Seizure Of Nigeria’s Presidential Jets in France Sparks Diplomatic Row
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In a shocking turn of events, three presidential jets belonging to the Federal Republic of Nigeria have been seized in France, sparking a diplomatic row between Nigeria and China.
The seizure is linked to a contractual dispute between the Ogun State government and a Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited.
Background of the Dispute
The dispute began in 2007 when the Ogun State government signed a contract with Zhongshan to manage a free-trade zone.
However, the contract was revoked in 2015, leading to an arbitration proceeding in 2018. An arbitral tribunal awarded Zhongshan $74.5 million in compensation, but the Ogun State government has yet to honor the award.
The Seizure of Presidential Jets
On August 14, 2024, the Federal Government of Nigeria became aware of the interim attachment of three presidential aircraft undergoing routine maintenance in France.
The attachment was made pursuant to ex parte orders issued by the Judicial Court of Paris on March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively.
Government’s Response
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that the Federal Government is working with the Ogun State government to discharge the “inappropriate orders” against the aircraft.
The government has also hinted at taking legal and diplomatic steps to resolve the dispute.
International Embarrassment
The seizure of the presidential jets has been described as an international embarrassment by Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 poll.
Obi has called for transparency and accountability in the management of government assets.
Diplomatic Row
The incident has sparked a diplomatic row between Nigeria and China, with the Nigerian government accusing Zhongshan of misleading the French court.
The Ogun State government has also stated that it was not notified before the order was granted.
In conclusion, the seizure of Nigeria’s presidential jets in France is a complex issue involving contractual disputes, arbitration, and diplomatic rows.
The Nigerian government must take urgent steps to resolve the dispute and protect its sovereign assets.
Transparency and accountability are essential in managing government assets to avoid such embarrassing incidents in the future.
