Tensions rose in Accra on July 26, 2025, when local traders protested, demanding Nigerians leave over alleged crimes and cultural differences. In response, Ghana’s government condemned the protests and vowed to protect all foreigners. Diplomatic talks quickly followed to preserve the strong bond between Ghana and Nigeria.
Efforts to Restore Peace
Visiting Ghana for two days, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, met with Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Speaking at a July 30, 2025, press conference, Ablakwa confirmed the protest leader was disciplined and apologized. Viral videos exaggerating unrest, he noted, were misleading.
Addressing a rumor about a Nigerian attempting an “Igbo kingdom” in Ghana, Ablakwa clarified no such plan existed. “Everyone in Ghana, citizen or not, is safe if they follow our laws,” he assured.
Call for Calm from Nigeria
Dispatched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Odumegwu-Ojukwu found no major unrest. “I saw no calls for mass deportations,” she said, praising Ghana’s swift response.
Avoiding past conflicts like Ghana’s 1969 Aliens Repatriation Order or Nigeria’s 1983 “Ghana Must Go” protests remains a priority, she added.
Reviving the Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission could strengthen ties, Odumegwu-Ojukwu suggested. Noting higher residency permit costs for Nigerians in Ghana compared to Ghanaians in Nigeria, she urged fairer policies.
Commitment to Unity
Emphasizing shared history, Ablakwa said, “Our common roots demand peace.” Meetings with Nigerian community leaders and locals aim to foster harmony and prevent further tensions in Ghana.
Cause of the Protests
At Accra’s Obra Spot on July 26, 2025, traders accused Nigerians of crimes like fraud and kidnapping, holding signs like “Protect Our Kids.” Controversy over Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu’s naming as an Igbo leader in Ghana sparked sovereignty concerns. Nigeria’s Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers later banned such titles abroad.
Path Forward
Pledging stronger ties, both ministers committed to safety. Rejecting claims labeling Nigerians as criminals, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) urged calm. Calling the protests “concerning,” Senator Aniekan Bassey, a Nigerian lawmaker, advocated for regional cooperation.
No attacks on Nigerians or their properties have occurred. Working together, Ghana and Nigeria aim to prevent escalation and maintain their deep friendship.
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