Chinese company deny involvement in Abia crane operator’s demise
By Innocent Raphael
A Chinese firm, Inner Galaxy Steel Company, located in the Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, has stated the tragic death of Miss Ocheze Ogbonna, a crane operator employed at the facility.
The incident, which resulted in the death of Ogbonna, has sparked controversy.
Chris Nkwonta, the representative of Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, in a statement, claimed that Ogbonna was killed by a Chinese expatriate at the company.
According to Nkwonta, the expatriate, identified only as Mr Power, allegedly pushed Ogbonna from the crane after she rejected his romantic advances.
Nkwonta expressed profound sorrow over the incident, condemning the act as wicked and an affront to the peaceful community of Umuahala-Obuzor.
He called for justice and emphasized that such actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for human life and the community’s tranquillity.
“Miss Ocheze Ogbonna’s death orchestrated by a Chinese expatriate is a gross abuse of the rules of engagement and a total disregard for the sanctity of human life and an affront to their host community,” Nkwonta stated.
“This barbaric act highlights the urgent need to address the behaviour of Chinese expatriates in Nigeria to prevent further violence and ensure justice is served,” he added.
In response, Inner Galaxy Steel Company Public Affairs Manager, Mr Ceng Jing, refuted the allegations. The company claims Ogbonna’s death was an accident resulting from her falling asleep while operating the crane.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our staff member, Miss Vivian Ocheze Munachim. Contrary to the false allegations circulating on social media, a thorough investigation has shown that Miss Munachim fell asleep while operating the crane, leading to her fall,” Jing stated.
The company criticized the spread of misinformation, which it says led to violence, looting, and vandalism at their facility. Jing emphasized that there is no evidence of a Chinese staff member being involved romantically with Ogbonna or being responsible for her death.
“We urge the public to remain calm and allow law enforcement to complete their investigation. We are fully cooperating with the authorities to ensure the facts are established,” Jing added. “Inner Galaxy Steel is committed to the safety and well-being of our employees and will provide support and compensation to Miss Munachim’s family.”
The police are currently investigating the incident, and further details are awaited as the community grapples with the fallout of this tragic event.
