Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to use diplomatic means to resolve the ongoing dispute surrounding the Ogun Free Trade Zone (FTZ). The situation has escalated significantly, with Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited, a Chinese firm, taking legal steps that could jeopardize Nigerian assets abroad.
The issue began when Zhongshan Fucheng obtained a court injunction to ground three presidential jets belonging to the Nigerian government in Europe. The company’s actions also extend to seeking to seize other Nigerian assets in the United Kingdom, the United States, and six other countries. These efforts are part of a broader legal strategy that spans multiple jurisdictions, including Belgium, Canada, France, Singapore, and the British Virgin Islands.
The legal battle stems from a failed contract between Zhongshan Fucheng and the Ogun State Government dating back to 2007 during Senator Daniel’s tenure as governor of Ogun State. Responding to the controversy, Daniel clarified his stance on the matter through his media office.
In his statement, Senator Daniel made it clear that neither he nor his administration are involved in the current court cases or arbitration discussions. He stressed that the ongoing issue is not about the initial agreement to establish the Ogun Free Trade Zone but rather concerns the termination of a management contract linked to the project.
The situation dates back to 2010 when the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone Company entered into a contract with the parent company of Zhongshan Fucheng to develop an industrial park within the zone. However, the agreement was terminated in early 2016, prompting Zhongshan Fucheng to seek legal redress. The company filed lawsuits in both Nigerian federal and state courts, aiming to have its contractual rights reinstated. Nevertheless, the legal proceedings were eventually halted in the spring of 2018.
In the statement, Daniel emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the court rulings have been unambiguous. He highlighted the fact that this dispute involves Nigeria’s national assets and the country’s Commonwealth, matters that should concern every patriotic Nigerian. Daniel, who now serves as a Senator and who once served as the governor of Ogun State, expressed his commitment to assisting Nigeria in finding a peaceful resolution to this dispute. He affirmed his willingness to provide the Federal Government with any records that might be useful in arbitration or court proceedings.
As a patriotic elder statesman, Daniel believes that diplomacy is the most effective way to resolve this issue. He advised against engaging in public or media discussions that could undermine Nigeria’s legal position. Given that the matter is currently before various courts in different countries, he urged everyone to refrain from making public comments that could be seen as subjudice.
Daniel further noted that the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone project remains operational, despite the ongoing legal battles. He pointed out that many Nigerians are employed there, and several companies continue to conduct legitimate business activities within the zone. By the time Daniel handed over the reins of Ogun State in 2011, about 56 companies were in different stages of operation, construction, or expressed interest in the Free Trade Zone. This level of activity, he said, has contributed significantly to the development of the once rural Igbesa area.
In his concluding remarks, Daniel warned against the spread of misinformation regarding the Free Trade Zone’s establishment and operations, particularly on social media. He urged the media to support the Nigerian government in finding a productive solution to this complex issue. The integrity and assets of the country, he insisted, must be protected.
Daniel also expressed his gratitude to those who have sought his perspective on the matter and to those who have commended his choice to remain silent publicly. He reassured everyone that he is working diligently to assist the President in navigating this challenging situation.
