Nigerians Must Go: Minister Bianca Ojukwu visits Ghana, urges calm

Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, has called for calm in response to growing protests by some Ghanaians demanding the deportation of Nigerians from their country.

The minister made the appeal during a joint press conference held in Ghana on Wednesday, following her arrival in the country to personally assess the situation sparked by viral videos of anti-Nigerian sentiments.

“Since I arrived, I haven’t seen people burning tyres in the streets or carrying placards everywhere calling for Nigerians to be deported,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated.

She noted that the Ghanaian government and its president had stepped in promptly to manage the situation. “There is no cause for alarm,” she said, assuring Nigerians that the matter was being handled effectively and that diplomatic engagements with key stakeholders were ongoing.

The Nigerian delegation has also met with several local leaders and individuals to de-escalate tensions and promote peaceful coexistence between the two West African nations.

Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Ablakwa, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the safety of all residents, including Nigerians. “The Ghanaian government will ensure that everyone in the country — citizens and non-citizens — is protected,” he said.

However, Ablakwa urged foreigners residing in Ghana to respect the country’s laws and avoid any actions that could incite division or unrest.

The protests, which took place over the weekend, were reportedly led by Ghanaian traders who accused some Nigerians of engaging in criminal activities and operating in ways that conflict with local customs and business ethics. Protesters were seen carrying placards and demanding that Nigerians leave the country.

Despite the tension, both governments have continued dialogue to ensure the safety of citizens and maintain diplomatic harmony.