Chinese Embassy Probes Alleged Abandonment of Nigerian Miners in Central African Republic
By: Erewunmi Peace
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has launched an investigation into reports that a Chinese mining firm operating in the Central African Republic (CAR) abandoned six Nigerian miners in a remote forest region, leaving them unpaid and stranded for months.
The development follows a viral video that surfaced online earlier this week, showing distressed Nigerian workers calling for help after allegedly being left without food, shelter, or wages.
What Happened?
According to the miners, they were recruited by a Chinese-owned company known as Rado Central Coal Mining Company and worked in the Bambari region of CAR for nearly 10 months. They claim they were not paid for the last six months, and their passports were seized by the company’s representatives.
The workers were eventually dropped off and abandoned in the Senye area, approximately 850 kilometers from the capital, Bangui, without any assistance or means of returning home.
Government Response
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed that the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui had located the miners, retrieved their passports, and is currently arranging their safe repatriation to Nigeria.
“Our priority is the safety and welfare of every Nigerian citizen abroad. We are working closely with local authorities in CAR to ensure the workers are brought back home safely,” the Ministry stated.
Chinese Embassy Reacts
In an official statement, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria expressed concern over the reports and stated that it had opened an investigation into the conduct of the company involved.
“Chinese companies operating overseas are expected to comply strictly with local laws and treat local workers fairly. We do not condone abuse, and we are taking this matter seriously,” the embassy said.
Quick Facts:
Number of Nigerians affected: 6
Country involved: Central African Republic
Company accused: Rado Central Coal Mining Company
Allegations: Passport seizure, unpaid wages, abandonment
Status: Passports recovered; repatriation process underway
Authorities involved: Nigerian MFA, NiDCOM, Chinese Embassy
What’s Next?
The Nigerian government has promised full support for the affected miners and hinted at diplomatic engagement with Chinese authorities to prevent a recurrence. Advocacy groups are also calling for tighter oversight of foreign companies hiring Nigerians for overseas labor.
