Rising Tensions Between Nigerians and Ghanaians
Nigerians living in Ghana have expressed concern over the “Nigerians Must Go” protest, which took place in several parts of the country on July 29. They view this event as an attempt to create a diplomatic rift between Nigeria and Ghana. The protesters, primarily Ghanaians, accused Nigerians of various misdeeds, including discrimination, economic sabotage, and deep-seated resentment.
The protest was marked by slogans such as “Armed robbery and violent attacks must stop,” “Our kids are getting missing because of Igbos,” and “Nigerians are kidnapping and using people for rituals.” These statements reflect growing hostility towards Nigerians, especially those involved in small businesses and informal trade.
Allegations of Discrimination
Members of the Nigerian community in Ghana have spoken about their experiences of persistent discrimination. They cited instances of exorbitant house rents imposed specifically on Nigerian tenants and selective enforcement of business regulations that disproportionately affect Nigerian-owned enterprises.
Patrick Isaac, a businessman, described the protest as an attempt by some Ghanaians who are unhappy with the success of Nigerian traders to provoke them into attacking Ghanaians, leading to a diplomatic crisis between the two nations. He emphasized that the protest is not a response to the actions or utterances of a self-proclaimed Igbo leader in Ghana but rather a reflection of growing hostility towards Nigerians.
Economic Challenges
Isaac also highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerian traders in Ghana. He mentioned that when renting an apartment or office space, Nigerians are often presumed to have too much money, even when they are just trying to survive. This has led to situations where Nigerians are charged significantly higher rents than Ghanaians, forcing them to leave.
Additionally, the proposed Ghana Investment Promotion Centre $1m levy has been seen as part of a scheme to frustrate foreigners, particularly Nigerian retail traders, out of business. This requirement mandates every foreign investor in Ghana to either provide $1m in cash or raw materials before being legally recognized to do business in the country.
Impact on the Nigerian Community
The protests have had a significant impact on the Nigerian community in Ghana. A fashion designer from Imo State, Emmanuel Chubike, spoke about the increasing targeting of Nigerian tenants by Ghanaian landlords due to growing tensions between both communities. He mentioned that many Nigerians have received quit notices from their landlords, citing the perceived hatred between the two groups.
Chubike appealed to the Ghanaian government to intervene and discourage unfair treatment, while urging both governments to work towards promoting mutual respect and peaceful coexistence between citizens of the two countries.
The Role of the Self-Styled Igbo King
The protest may have been triggered by the public declaration of a Nigerian national, Chukwudi Ihenetu, as the “Eze Ndi Igbo” (king of Igbos) in Ghana. Although Ihenetu made the declaration during an interview in 2013, the video resurfaced recently, sparking outrage among Ghanaians.
In the video, Ihenetu revealed his plans to build an Igbo village in Ghana, which includes a market, a guest house, and a palace. However, following the outrage generated by his declaration, Ihenetu was invited by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, and he apologized to the government and people of Ghana.
Internet War and Misinformation
The spokesperson for Igbo People in Ghana, Ifeanyichukwu Ugochukwu, stated that the crisis between Ndigbo and Ghanaians was caused by a few members of the larger Igbo group in the country. He mentioned that some individuals were unhappy with the Eze Ndigbo in Ghana and hired Ghanaian bloggers to write negative stories against Nigerians living in Ghana. The Ghanaian police have arrested four bloggers involved in the act.
Fear of Possible Attacks
Following the “Nigerians Must Go” protest, members of the Nigerian community have called on the Ghanaian government to provide adequate protection, amid fears of potential violence. Both the Nigerian and Ghanaian governments have assured Nigerians of their safety, pledging to maintain law and order and prevent any escalation of tension.
No Cause for Alarm – President Mahama
In a statement, President John Mahama of Ghana assured Nigeria of the safety of its nationals residing in Ghana, stating that there is no place for xenophobia in the country. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the Economic Community of West African States protocols, especially those concerning the free movement of persons and goods within the region.
The Ghanaian President promised that the lives, properties, and businesses of Nigerians in Ghana would be protected. He attributed the tension to the recirculation of a video recorded over a decade ago by a Nigerian residing in Ghana, saying the incident was promptly managed.
Conclusion
The situation between Nigerians and Ghanaians highlights the need for continued dialogue and understanding between the two nations. While there are challenges and tensions, it is essential to address these issues through peaceful means and promote mutual respect and cooperation.
