The FG of Nigeria issues an official statement regarding the reported killing of a Nigerian national by a group of Chinese individuals in the Philippines

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an official statement in response to the alleged involvement of six Chinese individuals in the tragic killing of a Nigerian medical student named Chibuikem Emmanuel in the Philippines.

As per available reports, Chibuikem’s life was purportedly taken by a group of Chinese nationals who, following an altercation with his employer, subjected him to torture, restrained his hands and mouth, and ultimately fatally assaulted him.

This harrowing incident transpired at Orlacson Street, 6014, Mandaue City. The source of the conflict stemmed from the fact that the Philippines and the involved Chinese nationals were reportedly irate that the deceased had provided lodging for his Filipino girlfriend in his official residence.

The Philippine National Police has filed murder charges against the six Chinese suspects, who are said to be evading authorities.

On the evening of Thursday, October 26, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement cautioning all Nigerian citizens residing in the Philippines to exercise heightened vigilance as the Philippine government continues its investigative efforts.

The statement issued by the Ministry reads as follows:

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA CONDEMNS THE FATAL ATTACK OF A NIGERIAN NATIONAL BY HIS EMPLOYER IN MANDAUE CITY, CEBU, PHILIPPINES ON 21ST OCTOBER, 2023

The Federal Government of Nigeria has received with sadness and grave concern, reports of the tragic death of a Nigerian national in the Philippines on 21st October, 2023.

The victim, identified as Mr. Chibuike Emmanuel Chukwuneke allegedly died of complications arising from the torture inflicted on him by thugs contracted by his Chinese employer, after an altercation.

According to the official Police report obtained by the Nigerian Embassy in the Philippines, an argument ensued when the late Mr. Chukwuneke demanded that his salary be paid on a pro-rata basis, following the termination of his employment by his employer, who accused him of contravening the terms of his contract by lodging his girlfriend in his official accommodation.
While there is no justification for the deadly attack on the deceased, the Federal Government calls on Nigerians living in the country to remain calm and law-abiding, while the Philippine authorities continue with investigations.

In line with the diaspora component of the 4-Ds Foreign Policy strategy, the Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to ensuring the protection of the fundamental human rights of all Nigerians wherever they live.