Soar Deal Investigation Between Nigerian-Chinese : EFCC , INTERPOL in Jurisdictional Showdown

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and INTERPOL

By Nweke Nweke, Awka

An ongoing investigation into alleged fraudulent business transactions between a Nigerian businessman and his Chinese associates has taken a complex turn, raising concerns over overlapping jurisdictions between Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and INTERPOL.

Despite the EFCC already showing interest in the matter, it has emerged that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, had in 2024 directed INTERPOL to conduct an investigation into the same case. This dual involvement now risks a jurisdictional clash and potential conflict of authority between the two law enforcement bodies.

On December 20, 2024, the IGP formally requested INTERPOL to investigate a petition filed by Mr. Collins Chiedoze Idoko against Mr. Huang Chuana, a Chinese national. The complaint alleges the misappropriation of a significant sum in Chinese Renminbi (RMB).

According to sources familiar with the case, the funds in question are linked to a business associate of Orinte Avemle Marketing Company Nigeria Enterprise. It is understood that this enterprise,now a complainant in a petition before the EFCC—had reportedly received full payment for the disputed funds while still raising allegations of fraud.

The IGP’s directive to INTERPOL was reportedly conveyed through a letter signed by DCP Asuquo Effiong, Principal Staff Officer II. The letter clarified that INTERPOL’s involvement was not intended to override or conflict with any ongoing investigations being handled by other units within the Nigeria Police Force.

However, despite the IGP’s clear directive, EFCC officer Kate Adams, based at the commission’s Oyo State office, allegedly invited Mr. Idoko to provide a statement possibly under caution in relation to the same matter, at their Ibadan office.

Further information from sources close to the Deputy Inspector General of Police at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Area 10, Abuja, indicates that the INTERPOL investigation is centered on a transaction involving Mr. Chidozie of Chido Power Oil and Logistics Services. Mr. Chidozie had allegedly received the naira equivalent of payment for goods to be imported on behalf of a client, which he then deposited into the Nigeria-based bank account of his Chinese counterpart.

Upon confirmation of receipt of the funds, Mr. Huang Chuana reportedly ensured that the Renminbi equivalent was transferred to another Chinese supplier responsible for delivering the goods.

Commenting on the development, the Nigerian businessman involved has urged the Inspector General of Police to intervene and instruct the EFCC to stand down. He expressed confidence in INTERPOL’s handling of the matter and criticized the EFCC’s parallel action as potentially disruptive to the ongoing investigation.

“I call on the Inspector General of Police to use his office to ask the EFCC to sheath their sword and allow INTERPOL to complete their investigation. I have confidence in the process underway at INTERPOL,” he stated.