Nigeria’s government has reacted after a viral video showed a group of people in Ghana demanding the deportation of Nigerians, alleging their conduct contradicts Ghana’s social norms.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), led by Abike Dabiri‑Erewa, urged Nigerians living in Ghana to stay calm and avoid confrontation while the matter is being addressed through diplomatic channels by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu .
In her statements through NIDCOM’s media director, Dabiri‑Erewa condemned the sweeping portrayal of Nigerians as criminals.
She clarified that while there might be a few individuals involved in wrongdoing, the Nigerian community in Ghana is largely peaceful and contributes positively to society.
The NIDCOM chair compared Ghana and Nigeria to “Siamese twins,” emphasising their shared history and calling for continued harmony consistent with principles of ECOWAS and regional integration .
The Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs echoed this call for composure. Chair Senator Bassey Aniekan asked Nigerians in Ghana to remain sober, avoid provocation, and resist any reprisals.
He welcomed the diplomatic efforts underway by Nigerian and Ghanaian authorities to manage the situation.
Both NIDCOM and the Senate dismissed circulating clips claiming that Nigerian-owned shops or properties were attacked, noting that no credible evidence supports such reports and warning against misinformation that might trigger retaliation.
Lawmakers and diaspora officials praised the quick responses of Nigerian and Ghanaian High Commissioners to contain the tension.
Meanwhile, Nigerians in Ghana have been advised to go about their routines as normal, assured that the issue is being handled at the government level.