'Nigerians Must Go,’ Ghanaians Protest Alleged Prostitution, Ritual Killings

Crossroads of Brotherhood: Ghana–Nigeria Tensions and the Historical Echoes of Migration Politics

A protest erupted in Ghana involving large groups of citizens demanding the removal of Nigerians from the country. The demonstrators accused Nigerian nationals, particularly individuals of Igbo descent, of involvement in crimes such as prostitution, ritual killings, kidnapping, and unlawful occupation of markets.

Key Points:

·       Protesters carried placards alleging:

o   Rising cases of prostitution and violent crimes.

o   Kidnappings and ritual-related killings.

o   Market and land takeovers by Nigerians.

·       Some protesters explicitly targeted the Igbo ethnic group, claiming they were disproportionately involved.

·       A photograph of a man allegedly murdered by a Nigerian in Accra was displayed.

·       Protesters voiced frustration at what they perceived as unchecked foreign influence and criminality.

·       No official response has yet been issued by the Ghanaian government regarding the protesters’ demands.

·       The protest echoes historical tensions between Nigeria and Ghana, reminiscent of the 1983 “Ghana Must Go” expulsion of undocumented immigrants from Nigeria

So, let’s take this story further with this caption:

Tensions Resurface: The Fragile Dynamics of Ghana–Nigeria Relations Amid Rising Xenophobia

As we’ve already established in this write up, Ghana has recently witnessed a surge in public protests, encapsulated by the rallying cry “Nigerians Must Go,” as citizens express growing concerns about alleged criminal activities attributed to Nigerian nationals. A viral video showed placards demanding action and a photo of a man allegedly killed by a Nigerian, adding emotional weight to the demonstrations.

This unrest stirs echoes of the 1983 “Ghana Must Go” saga when Nigeria expelled over two million undocumented immigrants, predominantly Ghanaians, during an economic downturn. It also recalls the 1969 Aliens Compliance Order by Ghana, which expelled thousands of foreigners, including Nigerians. citing national interests.

Timeline of Key Events in Nigeria–Ghana Relations

Year	Event	Description
1969	Aliens Compliance Order	Ghana expelled undocumented foreigners, including Nigerians, to reclaim economic control.
1983	“Ghana Must Go” Expulsion	Nigeria deported over 2 million immigrants, mostly Ghanaians, due to economic and social pressures.
1988	Joint Commission for Cooperation	Both nations created an official platform to deepen bilateral ties and regional diplomacy.
1993–1994	ECOWAS Peace Mediation	Presidents Rawlings and Babangida led joint efforts for peace in Liberia and regional stability.
2010	Trade Summit in Accra	Economic summit focused on enhancing cross-border trade and cooperation.
2020s	Migration & Trade Tensions	Recurrent disputes over market access, shop closures, and foreign residency laws.
2025	Anti-Nigerian Protests in Ghana	Demonstrations erupted over alleged crimes, challenging ECOWAS principles and sparking diplomatic concern.

Diplomacy and the Drive for Regional Unity

Amid the tensions, leaders in both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to peace and cooperation:

• Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry initiated diplomatic talks and condemned xenophobia.
• Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa urged calm and mutual respect, emphasizing Pan-African solidarity.
• Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, met with Nigerian counterparts to advance ECOWAS and AfCFTA objectives

As Ghana and Nigeria find themselves at another crossroads, the lessons of history, coupled with the pressing need for factual discourse, legal clarity, and regional unity, offer pathways toward reconciliation. Strained as the moment may be, the shared roots

A Complicated Diplomatic Dance

Despite this tumultuous history, Ghana and Nigeria have long enjoyed robust bilateral ties. As founding members of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), both countries pledged to uphold free movement, regional integration, and Pan-African solidarity. The establishment of the Joint Commission for Cooperation in 1988 marked a turning point toward reconciliation and strategic partnership.

However, recent events threaten these strides. Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has met with Nigerian officials to de-escalate tensions and reaffirm commitments to ECOWAS and AfCFTA goals. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Senator Aniekan Bassey and NIDCOM Chair Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa have called for calm, condemning blanket accusations and emphasizing peaceful coexistence.

Beyond the Headlines: Perspectives That Matter

To fully understand the situation, one must consider a broader range of perspectives:

·       ECOWAS Protocols: Targeted xenophobia undermines legal agreements guaranteeing free movement and residence across West Africa.

·       Sociological Undercurrents: Economic insecurity and competition for scarce resources often fuel nationalist sentiments and scapegoating.

·       Media Influence: Unverified viral claims can amplify fear and resentment, especially in digitally connected societies.

·       Human Rights: Collective punishment based on nationality violates international principles of fairness and non-discrimination.

·       Diaspora Contributions: Nigerians in Ghana include professionals, students, and entrepreneurs who contribute positively to society.

·       Cultural Tensions: Leadership structures like the appointment of an Igbo King have sparked debates around sovereignty and cultural respect.

·       Civil Society Voices: Youth groups and NGOs have responded with both concern and calls for dialogue, reminding us of the need for inclusive solutions.

Last Line of Action

While the protests mark a disturbing rise in anti-migrant sentiment, they also present an opportunity to revisit and strengthen diplomatic frameworks. True progress lies in balancing national identity with regional unity, enforcing laws without prejudice, and ensuring that grievances, economic or social, are addressed without fanning flames of division.

In other words, as both countries find themselves at another crossroads, the lessons of history, coupled with the pressing need for factual discourse, legal clarity, and regional unity, offer pathways toward reconciliation. Strained as the moment may be, the shared roots and aspirations of both nations provide fertile ground for healing and cooperation