Ghanaians protesting against alleged ritual killings, mass prostitution by Nigerians in their country. Source: Screenshot from a video posted on TikTok by Ghana blogs
Nigerian residents in Ghana decry rising discrimination, business clampdowns, and housing prejudice as governments work to ease fears and restore calm.
A recent protest in Ghana’s capital has reignited concerns over rising anti-Nigerian sentiments, with dozens of demonstrators staging a “Nigerians Must Go” rally over allegations of ritual killings, prostitution, and economic dominance by Nigerians. The protest, held on July 29, sent ripples across both nations, prompting calls for calm, diplomatic engagement, and stronger protection for Nigerian nationals living in Ghana.
Though Ghanaian authorities have assured the safety of Nigerians, the protest has triggered fears of xenophobic attacks akin to those witnessed in South Africa in 2017. Some of the protesters were seen clad in red shirts, waving Ghanaian flags and holding placards with inflammatory messages such as, “Our kids are going missing because of Igbos,” “Who protects the freedom of Ghanaians?” and “Nigerians are kidnapping and using people for rituals.”
The protest appears to have been sparked by the resurfacing of a 2013 video in which a Nigerian businessman, Chukwudi Ihenetu, who was declared “Eze Ndi Igbo” (Igbo King) in Ghana, spoke of plans to build an Igbo village on 50 acres of land. The proposal, which included constructing a town hall, palace, and Igbo-themed infrastructure, sparked backlash from some Ghanaians who viewed it as a territorial affront. Ihenetu has since publicly apologized, stating the plan was long abandoned and that no land was purchased.
Reacting to the protest, the Nigerian community in Ghana described it as a deliberate provocation, designed to incite violence and potentially trigger a diplomatic rift between the two West African nations. Business owners like Patrick Isaac and Emmanuel Chubike highlighted systemic discrimination, citing exorbitant rent increases, targeted evictions, and business regulations that disproportionately affect Nigerians.
“When a Ghanaian pays 1,000 Cedis, Nigerians are asked to pay five times more,” said Isaac, describing the unfair housing practices. Chubike, a fashion designer from Imo State, noted that landlords are increasingly issuing quit notices to Nigerian tenants, citing rising tension as justification.
Some Nigerian traders say the real motive behind the protests is economic jealousy. “It’s not about rituals or crime,” said one anonymous trader. “They’re targeting us because we’re thriving in business and raising standards of living.” He referenced the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)’s $1 million capital requirement for foreign businesses as a veiled effort to edge out Nigerian entrepreneurs.
The tension has already had cultural ramifications. The annual Igbo yam festival, Iriji, which has been held peacefully for 12 years, was postponed due to security concerns. Elder Joseph Njom, a community leader, explained that the decision was made out of caution and respect for the host caution and respect for the host country.
Despite the growing anxiety, Ghanaian and Nigerian officials have moved swiftly to contain the situation. Ghana’s President, John Mahama, while receiving a Nigerian delegation led by Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, reassured that the protest involved fewer than 50 individuals and affirmed Ghana’s commitment to the safety of Nigerian residents.
“Tell President Tinubu not to lose sleep over the protests. Nigeria and Ghana are brothers,” Mahama said, reaffirming Ghana’s dedication to ECOWAS protocols on free movement and economic cooperation.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, echoed this sentiment, noting the relative calm observed during her fact-finding visit. “There are no burning tyres or mass unrest. The situation is under control,” she stated.
However, community leaders and Nigerian residents have called for increased security presence in neighborhoods like Nima, Mamobi, New Town, Santa Maria, and Kasoa, where Nigerians live in large numbers.
Desmond Princewill, a trader, described the protests as “deeply unsettling” and urged both governments to proactively prevent violence. Similarly, Samuel Onukak, admin of the “Nigerians Staying in Ghana” Facebook forum, said the protest reflects long-standing resentment over Nigerians' perceived economic dominance, especially among Igbo traders, who he claims control up to 60% of Nigerian businesses in Ghana.
Secretary of the All Nigerian Community Ghana, Olubunmi Onipede, dismissed notions of widespread hostility, blaming misinformation spread online. “The real challenge is not the people, but bloggers and bad actors spreading falsehoods,” she said.
Ghanaian police have arrested four bloggers allegedly involved in spreading false reports and inciting ethnic tension. Community representatives say they remain committed to peaceful coexistence and are engaging with authorities to prevent further unrest.
As dialogue continues, both nations have reiterated their commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties, preserving regional unity, and protecting all residents regardless of nationality.
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