THE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has allayed fears over recent reports of anti-Nigerian sentiments and protests in Ghana, urging Nigerians at home and abroad to remain calm.
Speaking during a joint press briefing with Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Ablakwa, in Accra on Wednesday, Odumegwu-Ojukwu assured that there was “no cause for alarm,” noting that viral videos circulating on social media did not reflect the actual situation on the ground.
The visit comes in the wake of public anxiety triggered by widely shared footage of protests allegedly calling for the deportation of Nigerians from Ghana.
“We are here in Ghana on a fact-finding mission as a special envoy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following the spread of disturbing videos which caused great concern among Nigerians,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.
“Since arriving in Accra, we have found no such widespread unrest. There were no protests, no burning tyres, or anti-Nigerian placards in the streets. This clearly shows the Ghanaian Government has risen to the occasion.”
She praised Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama for his swift intervention and the warm reception accorded the Nigerian delegation, adding that both countries share a deep bond rooted in history, culture, and people-to-people relationships.
The minister acknowledged that while the videos sparked fear among Nigerians, the ground reality paints a much calmer picture.
“Our traditional rulers, lawmakers, and citizens back home have all been worried. That’s why we came — to assess and reassure. And based on our findings, there is no immediate threat to the safety or wellbeing of Nigerian nationals living in Ghana.”
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized the need to strengthen the Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission, which she said could play a vital role in promoting better bilateral understanding, conflict resolution, and cross-border cooperation.
She also confirmed that her delegation had met with relevant community leaders, individuals involved in the matter, and Ghanaian stakeholders to de-escalate any underlying tensions.
Responding at the briefing, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Ablakwa reaffirmed that Nigerians and all non-citizens are safe in Ghana and will continue to enjoy protection under the law.
“We have engaged with Nigerian community leaders and are taking proactive steps to ensure peace and mutual respect,” Ablakwa said.
He urged both citizens and foreigners in Ghana to be law-abiding and to refrain from actions that could threaten national harmony.
The Minister acknowledged past tensions between the two countries, notably Ghana’s Aliens Repatriation Order and Nigeria’s “Ghana Must Go” episode of 1983, saying such historical lessons should guide today’s actions.
“Our cultures and people are deeply intertwined. We must not allow misinformation or youthful recklessness to take us backward,” he said.
“We are not just neighbours; we are one people with shared roots and destinies.”
Ablakwa also addressed the controversy around a Nigerian national accused of attempting to establish a “kingdom” in Ghana, clarifying that there was no evidence of territorial ambitions, and the matter had been exaggerated.
Officials Accompanying the Special Envoy:
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu was accompanied by senior officials from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including:
Amb. Regina Ocheni, Director, Africa Affairs
Amb. Innocent Iwejuo, Director, Office of the Minister of State
Mr. Ajuluchukwu Eze, Special Assistant (Administration)
Both ministers reiterated the importance of constructive diplomacy, historical awareness, and the need for accurate information sharing in managing cross-border relations.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu concluded by urging citizens of both countries to resist divisive rhetoric and remain committed to the spirit of Pan-African solidarity.
“Let us not allow social media to inflame what does not exist. We must show restraint, compassion, and maturity,” she said.
The visit, seen as a timely diplomatic intervention, is expected to ease tensions and strengthen the foundation for a more institutionalized Nigeria-Ghana partnership in the years ahead.