A Chinese national featured in a widely circulated video showing some officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) lining up to receive N5,000 cash has clarified the reasons behind the controversial action.
In a video seen on Thursday, a Chinese man who identified himself as the leader of the delegation and who was also seen at the start of the video handing out the cash said the handouts were a token of appreciation to the police.
He said no money was offered or demanded inappropriately, noting that the money was given in “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,” he added.
“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.”
Reactions trailed the video since it was posted on social media, with many Nigerians describing the incident as shameful.
Commenting on the incident, Omoyele Sowore, presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 elections, said the officers were reduced to nothing due to their “greed and indiscipline”.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) had also condemned the conduct of its officers and promised sanctions.
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