Shehu Sani, a former senator from Kaduna Central, claims that foreign companies have mastered the practice of suing the country in European courts when deals with the federal government or sub-nationals go awry.

Sani made this comment in a post on X after three presidential jets owned by the Nigerian government were seized by a French court as part of a dispute with a Chinese company that alleged breach of contract by the Osun state government.

According to Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited, the Osun state government failed to uphold a 2007 agreement regarding the development of a free trade zone. This disagreement led to arbitration and ultimately the seizure of the jets. Despite an independent arbitral tribunal awarding Zhongshan approximately $74.5 million, the Ogun State Government has disputed the decision and has not yet honored the award.

The incident has sparked controversy among Nigerians. Describing the event as an international embarrassment, Obi, in a statement on Thursday, condemned the federal government's handling of the situation and highlighted the broader implications of the event.

In his post, Shehu Sani said: "Foreign multinational companies have perfected the art of coming to our country to sign business deals, and when issues arise, they sue us in European courts. Our lawyers drafting contract papers or MOUs should take note of this."

Foreign multinational companies have perfected the art of coming to our country to sign business deals and when there are issues,they sue us in European courts.Our lawyers drafting contracts papers or MOUs should take note of this.

— Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) August 15, 2024