Bianca Travels to Ghana in the Midst of 'Nigerians Should Leave' Demonstrations
In recent days, Ghana has seen protests by some of its citizens demanding the deportation of Nigerians living in the country. These demonstrations, which have been held in local markets and have been peaceful, have sparked diplomatic discussions between the governments of Ghana and Nigeria.
The protests have been driven by perceptions among some Ghanaians that Nigerians are involved in increased criminality, as well as allegations of unfair competition in business and economic activities. However, Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has visited Ghana to engage with Ghanaian authorities and stakeholders to calm the situation.
During a joint press briefing in Ghana on Wednesday, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated that there is no cause for alarm regarding the situation in Ghana. She has met with local leaders and individuals involved in the protests to help de-escalate tensions between Nigerian traders and their Ghanaian counterparts.
Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, has assured that the government is working closely with the Nigerian community to ensure peace. He stated that the protection of both citizens and non-citizens in the country is a priority for the Ghanaian government.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu believes that the Ghanaian government and the president have stepped up to handle the situation effectively. She has stated that she will continue engaging stakeholders regarding the situation in Ghana.
The ongoing discussions between the governments of Ghana and Nigeria have been prompted by the protests, which have caused diplomatic discussions between the two countries. However, both governments are actively working to address and contain the tensions.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has also stated that viral videos of the protests had created unnecessary panic. She emphasized that she has not seen widespread protests or calls for the deportation of Nigerians during her visit.
In response to the protests, the Nigerian government has urged calm among its nationals living in Ghana and seeks a peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels. The Ghanaian government has assured that it will protect the lives, properties, and businesses of all its citizens and non-citizens.
In conclusion, the underlying issues leading to calls for the deportation of Nigerians from Ghana revolve mainly around allegations that Nigerians are contributing to rising crime levels, as well as claims of unfair competition in business and economic activities. However, both governments are actively engaging to address and contain the tensions, and Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has stated that there is no imminent mass deportation.
- Politicians in Nigeria's Senate have expressed concern over the ongoing protests in Ghana, urging the government to take necessary measures to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens.
- The ongoing protests in Ghana, sparked by allegations of increased criminality and unfair competition, have also raised concerns in the general news and crime-and-justice sections.
- As Afcon 2021 approaches, the tension between Ghanaian and Nigerian football fans can potentially escalate, given the political climate and the recent developments in Ghana.
- Some African news outlets, focusing on war-and-conflicts and politics, have also reported on the worsening relations between the two West African countries, calling for diplomatic solutions.
