Why We Expelled Chinese and Shut Down Their Factory — Cross River Youths

A former youth president of Effi community in Ikom LGA, Cross River State, Alobi Ofuka, has outlined several reasons why the community’s youths expelled Chinese nationals operating a wood processing factory on Monday.

Ofuka explained that the Chinese operators lacked valid documents authorizing them to run the factory in their community. He also accused them of employing underage children, violating child labor laws, and mistreating local workers.

“Our sons and daughters work without safety gear—no boots, helmets, or gloves. They are treated like slaves in their own village, and we won’t accept that anymore. If they want to continue operations, we need to revisit the agreement and resolve all outstanding issues,” Ofuka stated.

He expressed frustration over the situation and emphasized that it could no longer be ignored.

Another resident, Konye David, highlighted that the community was too educated to allow such exploitation. He accused the Chinese of being dishonest, refusing to show legal documents or the agreements made with the community chiefs.

“Our investigations revealed that they lack a company name, registration papers, or authority to operate here. They promised to employ our youths, but those employed have been mistreated. One of our sons, Alobi Ndoma, lost three fingers while working at the factory, and another, Chima Raphael, suffered hot water burns. The company showed no concern for their welfare. We can’t continue to live with foreign nationals who are destroying our natural resources,” David said.

The Chief Security Officer of the firm, Raymond Okongor, acknowledged the youth’s demands, confirming their right to see the agreement but explained it was the community chiefs’ responsibility to provide it. He assured that a meeting would be scheduled once the company’s manager returned from Calabar.

The community’s lawyer, Ichire Okim, confirmed that the firm had all the necessary documents from Nigerian authorities and valid agreements with local elders.