Ghana, Nigeria Call for Calm After Deportation Protest Sparks Diplomatic Concern
In the wake of a recent protest by a section of Ghanaians demanding the deportation of Nigerians from the country, both Ghana and Nigeria have moved swiftly to calm tensions and prevent any diplomatic fallout. The demonstration, which was sparked by a viral video containing inflammatory remarks, has been widely condemned by both governments.
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, speaking at a meeting with a Nigerian fact-finding delegation on July 30, confirmed that the individual in the video has since apologized and faced reprimand. He urged Ghanaians to remain calm and remember the hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians living in Nigeria who could be affected by retaliatory sentiments. "Let us manage this situation carefully," he stressed.
Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegu Ojukwu, who was part of the visiting team, downplayed sensational media reports suggesting widespread anti-Nigerian sentiments in Ghana. “There were no tires burning or crowds chanting for deportations,” she observed, praising President Mahama for his leadership in keeping the peace.
Ojukwu reassured Nigerians that the situation was under control and lauded the cordial relationship between Presidents Bola Tinubu and John Mahama. She added that Nigeria would continue engaging all parties to ensure such incidents do not recur
