Liu Bei, the owner of a small retail store in Abuja, has recently been accused of discriminatory practices, leading to the closure of her shop by Nigerian authorities. In response to the allegations, she has issued a statement clarifying her establishment’s policy.
Bei emphasizes that her store is a limited retail operation, catering primarily to the local community instead of a supermarket chain. Her main clientele consists of residents and workers in the surrounding Royal Choice Estate.
In her statement, Bei strongly denies any discriminatory practices based on nationality, pointing out that she currently employs Nigerians at her shop. She further attests to her commitment to fair treatment, highlighting her past service to Nigerian customers.
However, despite her assertions, the incident raises questions about the unclear visitor regulations and the alleged altercation between a security guard and a Nigerian visitor. Bei remains vague on the specifics of these rules and how they were enforced, leaving unresolved security concerns.
Moreover, Bei’s statement reaffirms her intention to permanently close the shop after downsizing operations in December 2023, adding to the speculation about any potential changes in the store’s policy or clientele leading up to the incident.
The incident has sparked discussions about fair treatment and equal access to businesses in Nigeria, and the accusations against Bei’s store have brought this issue to the forefront of public discourse. While Bei denies discriminatory intent, lingering questions about the incident and the regulations enforced at the store remain.
