No Cause for Panic – Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu Assures Nigerians in Ghana Amid Deportation Protests

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has called for calm and reassured Nigerians living in Ghana following recent protests by some Ghanaians calling for the deportation of Nigerians from the country.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who traveled to Ghana for a firsthand assessment of the situation, held a joint press briefing with Ghanaian authorities on Wednesday. She described the situation on the ground as under control, noting that the viral videos circulating online had exaggerated public fears.

“Since I arrived, I haven’t seen people burning tyres or carrying placards everywhere. That shows the Ghanaian government has stepped up to handle the situation,” she said. “There is no cause for alarm. We will keep working with all stakeholders to ensure calm and mutual understanding.”

The minister disclosed that she had met with local leaders and protesters to de-escalate tensions, particularly between Nigerian traders and their Ghanaian counterparts—a key issue at the heart of the unrest.

Over the weekend, a group of Ghanaian traders held peaceful protests, demanding the deportation of Nigerians over claims of unfair competition and alleged involvement in criminal activities. The protests sparked concern among Nigerians living in Ghana and prompted urgent diplomatic discussions.

Also speaking at the briefing, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, emphasized that the government was taking the situation seriously and working closely with the Nigerian community.

“The Ghanaian government will ensure that both citizens and foreigners are protected. But we urge everyone to remain law-abiding and avoid actions that could divide us,” Ablakwa stated.

The diplomatic outreach is seen as a positive step in calming tensions and reaffirming the strong relationship between Nigeria and Ghana. Both governments have vowed to continue dialogue and cooperation to maintain peace and protect their citizens.