Eric Patrick
A Chinese national, captured in a viral video giving money to some Nigerian Mobile Police (MOPOL) officers in Kaduna, has released an official statement to clarify the situation and issued an apology to for the misunderstanding it sparked online.
The video, which quickly gained traction on social media appeared to capture a group of Chinese delegates interacting with armed police officers in Nigeria.
Some viewers suggested that the interaction involved a monetary exchange, raising public alarm and speculation regarding potential bribery or unethical behavior.
In a statement signed by Mr. Jiang on Thursday, one of the individuals seen in the video, the Chinese delegation strongly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that no money was offered or demanded inappropriately, and no bribe was given to the officers.
The statement said, “In light of the viral video circulating the social media and news, showing some of our delegates interacting with some Nigerian Mobile Police officers (MOPOL) in Kaduna. We ’d like to take a moment to address the issue amicably. The way and manner the video has been shared and interpreted has led to some serious misunderstandings. So, we want to be very clear:
“No money was given to the officers on any demand or request, there was no bribe, no illegal exchange but on good faith appreciating their professionalism. What you see in the video was a friendly and open interaction — nothing was done in secret and nothing inappropriate happened.
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“It’s a common Chinese tradition, where we come from, to show appreciation or kindness to people who are doing their jobs well — especially when they’ve been helpful or respectful. That was all what it was: a kind gesture, not a payoff or alleged bribe.
“We also want to say this very sincerely — we are sorry about how this played out, despite this experience, we remain committed to Nigeria.
“We humbly request for continued security operatives for the smooth sailing of our operations here in Nigeria as well as safety purposes.
“We feel secured and at home with them around. Our sincere apologies once again.”