Chinese–Ndigbo Rivalry Goes Beyond Business,Ex- Anambra Lawmaker Warns

Hon. George Okoye

Former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Njikoka State Constituency, Hon. George Okoye, has raised concerns over what he described as an emerging confrontation between Ndigbo and Chinese traders in Nigeria, warning that the issue may have moved beyond the conventional realms of commerce and politics.

In a strongly worded statement dated Thursday, September 17, 2026, Okoye alleged that Chinese traders are increasingly expanding their presence in Nigeria’s distributive trade, a development he believes could threaten the traditionally prominent position of Ndigbo in the sector.

Reflecting on events involving African immigrants in South Africa, Okoye drew a comparison between the treatment of an Igbo king reportedly slated for installation among the diaspora and the subsequent emergence of a Chinese figure in the same context.

According to him, the episode was an indication of what he considers a broader pattern of tension between Chinese interests and African immigrant communities.

Quoting the biblical passage, “We do not war after the flesh,” from 2 Corinthians 10:3, he alleged that the current confrontation has a spiritual dimension.

He claimed to have identified what he described as “three altars” connected to a spiritual network in Aroh-Ndimmili, and said he was working to dismantle them.

Okoye also referenced the COVID-19 era, claiming that he had previously undertaken efforts which, in his account, were intended to counter what he described as forces working against China during the pandemic and the period of severe lockdowns and travel restrictions in mainland China and Hong Kong.
He questioned whether the present tensions represented a response to what he described as his earlier support for the Chinese people.

The former lawmaker said he had also alerted a prominent figure within the Igbo community in Lagos, identified as Mbuze Mbaukwu, about what he called the seriousness of the situation.

Okoye also called for heightened mobilisation among Ndigbo, insisting that the situation, in his view, should not be treated merely as a matter of street protests or placards.
“ALL HANDS ON DECK,” he declared.