By Favour Ulebor, Abuja

A Chinese scholar, Professor Hui An, has warned that the reported detention of Venezuela’s President, Nicolás Maduro, by external forces raises serious concerns for developing countries and the future of international law.

In a press statement by Hui, a professor at the China Africa Think Tank Research Center, the incident was described as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty, with the scholar noting that actions taken against a sitting president without United Nations authorisation or the consent of the affected country undermine the foundations of the international order.

Hui said the development, though presented as a law enforcement action, reflects a wider and troubling trend in global politics, where power politics are increasingly placed above international law. He noted that such practices set dangerous precedents that could be repeated in other regions, including Africa.

According to him, Venezuela’s political and economic challenges should be resolved through constitutional processes and political dialogue, rather than external coercion, which he said often deepens internal divisions and fuels instability.

The scholar noted that many developing countries, including Nigeria, have strong reasons to be concerned, stressing that respect for sovereignty, equality among states and non interference are not abstract principles but issues tied to national security and survival.

Hui also pointed out that international reactions to the incident have been divided, with some countries justifying the action under domestic laws, while others insist on adherence to the United Nations Charter and oppose unilateral actions.

He said China’s position remains consistent, emphasizing respect for sovereignty, opposition to forced regime change and the peaceful resolution of disputes. Hui added that China’s cooperation with Africa and Latin America focuses on development, infrastructure and capacity building rather than interference.

The scholar said China is ready to work with Nigeria and other developing nations to uphold a United Nations centred international system, promote dialogue and prevent a return to a global order where might overrides international law.