The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has withdrawn the 48-hour ultimatum earlier issued to the Chinese Government to remedy the alledged visa denial and perceived business conspiracy against one Mr Kingsley Okpala, CEO of New Age Mobile Concepts Limited. This was communicated to the Press on Tuesday, 2nd January, 2024 at the Chinese Embassy in Abuja, when some of the Executives of NCSCN went to submit a letter to the Embassy, to officially confirm their resolve to stand down all planned protests, and picketing of the Chinese Embassy with all businesses of the Chinese People across Nigeria, starting from same Tuesday.
It would be recalled that on Thursday, 28th December, 2023, the Council held a World Press Conference and Media Rally to call the attention of both the Nigerian and Chinese Governments, with all relevant quarters to this matter, which they asserted was capable of disrupting the cordial bilateral and business relationships existing between the people of China and Nigeria.
While addressing the Press, the Executive Director of NCSCN, Comr. Blessing Akinlosotu said their decision to withdraw the ultimatum, which was scheduled to commence Tuesday, was informed by the prompt and hopeful actions taken by the Consulate-General of the Embassy of China to Nigeria in contacting both the complainant and the Council less than 12-hours after submission of the Council’s letter. Also that the complainant, Mr Kingsley Okpala, had reached out to leadership of the NCSCN to relay outcome of his meeting with the Chinese Embassy, confirming that amicable steps were being taken to find solution to controversies.
Akinlosotu commended the efforts of the Chinese Consulate-General and Government of China, describing it as responsive and responsible leadership that was worthy of emulation by all countries, and that ir clearly showcased the value China places on the relationship with Nigeria, which the Civil Society Comnunity viewed as highly impressive . He emphasized the need for the over 50 years relationship between China and Nigeria to be sustained and guarded jealously by both parties, further advising that this approach should be sustained and the matter in question resolved satisfactorily within the stipulated time frame.
Also addressing the Press, the Executive Secretary of NCSCN, Dr. Raymond Edoh read out the content of the letter submitted while disclosing that the Civil Society Council remained committed to promoting and protecting the interests of every Nigerian Citizen at home and in the diaspora.
“we are here to work for the citizens of Nigeria and nothing other than that. We remain resolute to partner with the Government of Nigeria and all foreign Governments within Nigeria to address all manners of challenges affecting Nigerians NCSCN vows to follow up on any complaint brought before us by any Nigerian to the logical conclusion. We never back out or abandon struggles, but will continue to protect the Citizens of Nigeria in our own level, while partnering with all quarters that would wish to help us achieve our goals, be it Economic, Security or any form of injustice” he said.
In his own remark, the Director Programmes and Organisations of NCSCN, Mazi Oscar David Kalu, commended the efforts of the Press, pointing out that the achievement made on the iissue would not have be possible without the support and cooperations of the Media. He reaffirmed that the Council would continue to engage the Press towards National Development and wellbeing of the Nigerian People, at all times.
