By: Mercy Peter
President John Mahama of Ghana has assured Nigerians that xenophobia has no place in Ghana,
This is as he reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the principles of regional integration and peaceful coexistence.
In a statement issued by Dr. Magnus Eze
Special Assistant on Communication and New Media Office of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mahama gave the assurance when he received a Nigerian government delegation led by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at the Presidential Palace in Accra.
The statement reads in parts: “He emphasized that Ghana remains committed to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Protocols, especially those relating to the free movement of persons, goods, and services within the region.
“According to him, these principles are at the heart of Ghana’s diplomatic engagements and its relationship with fellow West African nations, particularly Nigeria.
“Mahama clarified that the incident stemmed from the recirculation of a video recorded over a decade ago by a Nigerian resident in the country.
“He disclosed that the protest involved fewer than 50 individuals and that it was swiftly managed by Ghanaian authorities before it could escalate.
“He assured the delegation that the lives, properties, and businesses of Nigerians living in Ghana remain protected under Ghanaian law.
“Mahama also emphasized the longstanding bonds between Nigeria and Ghana, describing the two countries as brothers with a shared history.
“He urged the visiting delegation to convey to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that there was no cause for alarm, as Ghana remains a peaceful and welcoming country for Nigerians and other ECOWAS nationals.”
Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that the Nigerian government had received reports and public reactions concerning the viral video and protests, prompting the decision to dispatch a high-level fact-finding mission to Accra.
She explained that Nigerians at home and abroad had expressed concern over the safety of their fellow citizens in Ghana, particularly regarding their welfare, properties, and business interests.
She stressed that the visit was aimed at de-escalating tension and reinforcing bilateral cooperation.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed satisfaction with the assurances received and praised the Ghanaian government’s proactive handling of the matter.
According to her, the commission would provide a formal platform to address recurring issues, including migration, youth employment, cross-border trade, and regional development.
She highlighted the need to manage migration pressures arising from the growing population of unemployed youths under the age of 45 in both countries.
She was accompanied on the mission by Ambassador Regina Ocheni, Director of the Africa Affairs Department; Ambassador Innocent Iwejuo, Director in the Office of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; and Mr. Ajuluchukwu Eze, Special Assistant (Administration) to the Minister of State.
