By Okafor Joseph | July 29, 2025 | SpringnewsNG Media Limited

The Federal Government of Nigeria has pledged to handle the escalating anti‑Nigerian protests in Ghana through diplomatic engagement, following renewed public outcry by Ghanaians demanding the expulsion of Nigerian nationals over alleged involvement in crimes.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the government was committed to resolving the crisis peacefully.

“We will engage the Ghanaian authorities diplomatically,” Ebienfa assured, amid growing tension between the two West African neighbors.

Widespread Anti‑Nigerian Protests in Accra

In recent weeks, hundreds of Ghanaians staged a mass protest at Obra Spot in Accra, carrying placards that read:

• “Nigerians Must Go”
• “End Kidnapping”
• “End Prostitution”
• “End Fraud and Ritual Murders”

The demonstrators accused some Nigerians in Ghana of fuelling crime, moral decay, and health risks, citing cases of kidnappings, internet fraud, and alleged ritual activities.

A viral video from the protest showed demonstrators draped in Ghanaian flags and wearing red clothing, a traditional symbol of resistance. One female protester declared:

“Nigerians must go because you cannot be in someone’s country and be doing anyhow.”

Historical Ties Strained

The tension marks a sharp contrast to the long‑standing Nigeria‑Ghana relationship, which dates back to colonial times when both nations were under British rule.

Ironically, during Ghana’s economic downturn in the 1980s, many Ghanaians sought refuge in Nigeria, but today some are calling for Nigerians to leave their country.

Recent incidents, including crime allegations against foreign nationals and the controversy surrounding the coronation of an Igbo leader in Ghana, have worsened public sentiment.

The ‘Eze Ndigbo’ Controversy

Public anger intensified after photos of the opulent palace of Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu, installed as “Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana”, went viral.

The development triggered debates on cultural sovereignty and foreign community leadership, prompting the South‑East Council of Traditional Rulers in Nigeria to abolish the use of “Eze Ndigbo” outside Igbo land, introducing the new title “Onyendu Ndigbo” for diaspora leaders.

According to a July 2025 communique, the council stressed that the title of “Eze” is sacred and exclusive to traditional rulers enthroned in Igbo ancestral lands.

FG Moves to Calm Diplomatic Waters

The Nigerian government said it will intensify engagement with Ghanaian authorities to protect Nigerian citizens and stabilize bilateral relations.

Analysts warn that failure to address the rising hostility could affect trade, migration, and regional cooperation between the two ECOWAS members.