Lagos State Police have pledged to arrest organisers of a protest in which Nigerian traders chanted “Chinese must go” and demanded that Chinese merchants leave the Lagos Trade Fair Complex.
The demonstration drew security attention after videos circulated online showing traders gathered at the market. Protesters claimed some Chinese businesses were undercutting them by selling goods directly to consumers at lower prices, renting shops, building warehouses and contacting customers using phone numbers obtained from waybills.
One trader said local businesses could no longer make sales because Chinese operators priced goods below those of Nigerian importers. The protesters insisted their action targeted alleged retail competition rather than Chinese nationals themselves. “If any of us spoils anything here, the person will pay for it. We are not saying we are going to beat the Chinese or spoil their warehouse,” one trader stated. They said they had previously maintained good relations with Chinese business owners.
Police described those behind the protest as “a few miscreants” and “few disgruntled fellows.” Area Commander Tijani Fatai, representing the state commissioner, said the group had been cautioned and that arrests would follow “as soon as possible.”
A briefing attended by Amuwo Local Government Chairman Prince Lanre Sanusi, officials of the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPMDA), the police and other security agencies was held to address the incident and reassure the public. ASPMDA leaders said the situation was quickly brought under control.
The president of the Chinese Community in ASPMDA addressed the gathering in English and Chinese, describing Lagos as “a good market” and stating that Chinese community members were “enjoying and happy with it.” She gave no indication that the protest had reduced their willingness to continue operating in the city.
Security agencies are expected to keep monitoring the complex to prevent further tension between Nigerian traders and Chinese merchants.
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