The Nigeria Police Force, through its Interpol Unit, has commenced investigations into a disputed shipment of solar panels reportedly worth N3.3 billion. The panels were imported from China by a Nigerian businessman, Amuchi Obi, on behalf of over fifty traders at the Alaba International Market in Lagos.
According to a petition submitted to the Inspector General of Police by Mr. Obi through his solicitor, B.O. Alaka Esq., the shipment, which arrived in nine cargo containers, allegedly contained solar panels that did not match the agreed specifications. The goods were also said to have been in poor condition upon arrival, raising concerns among the investors.
The businessman explained that the panels were purchased from Hebei-Kewang Import and Export Trading Co. Ltd, through its representatives, after discussions on model types and capacity specifications. Payments were reportedly made through various bank accounts in Hong Kong and Singapore associated with the company.
The petition further states that despite acknowledging receipt of payment, the supplier allegedly shipped products that differed from what was agreed and included outdated panels, some of which were not fit for intended use. Mr. Obi claims to have sought an amicable resolution, during which the supplier reportedly agreed to send five new containers as compensation. However, those have yet to be delivered.
Due to rising tensions between the businessman and the investors who contributed funds for the deal, Mr. Obi is said to have sought the assistance of Interpol to help resolve the issue. The investigation, according to sources, may involve collaboration with Chinese authorities.
When contacted, the Commissioner of Police in charge of Interpol in Lagos, Bode Ojajuni, confirmed that the case is under investigation. “We are investigating such a case and our men will be going to China to discuss with our Chinese counterparts. That’s all I can tell you for now,” he said.
Efforts to reach representatives of the Chinese company for comment were unsuccessful, as contact numbers provided by the complainant did not connect at the time of filing this report
