By Erewunmi Peace

Tensions flared in Ghana’s capital on Saturday as dozens of protesters took to the streets, demanding the expulsion of Nigerians from the country. The demonstration, which erupted around the busy Obra Spot area of Accra, was fueled by growing claims that Nigerians are behind increasing levels of crime, prostitution, and social instability in Ghana.

Protesters marched with placards bearing inscriptions such as “Nigerians Must Go,” “End Fraud and Rituals,” and “Ghana is not a dumping ground for criminals.” The protesters also chanted slogans condemning Nigerian involvement in alleged kidnappings and ritual killings.

One protester told local media: “You cannot be in someone’s country and be doing anyhow. We are no longer safe, and our leaders must act.”

This protest comes weeks after the controversial installation of a Nigerian businessman as an “Igbo king” in Ghana, a move that sparked outrage and was later denounced by both Nigerian and Ghanaian authorities.

Rising Regional Tensions

While Ghana and Nigeria share deep cultural and economic ties, relations have historically experienced strain. Notably, Ghana expelled thousands of Nigerians in the late 1960s, and Nigeria retaliated with mass expulsions in 1983 — events that birthed the infamous “Ghana Must Go” phrase.

The current wave of anti-Nigerian sentiment appears to be fueled by viral social media posts linking Nigerians to fraud, drug activity, and sex trafficking. However, analysts have cautioned against generalizations, stressing that criminality is not unique to one nationality.

Government Yet to Respond

As of the time of filing this report, the Ghanaian government has not issued an official statement regarding the protest. The Nigerian High Commission in Accra is reportedly monitoring the situation and may issue a travel advisory if tensions escalate.

Meanwhile, members of the Nigerian community in Ghana are calling for calm and urging authorities to ensure their safety.

Calls for Dialogue

Experts have urged both nations to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and instead strengthen bilateral cooperation on security and migration policies.

“We cannot allow isolated crimes to become justification for xenophobia. Ghana and Nigeria need each other more than ever,” said a regional analyst at ECOWAS.