Senate Committee on Diaspora Condemns Calls for Deportation of Nigerians from Ghana
The Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations has condemned recent calls by some Ghanaians for the deportation of Nigerians, following a viral video showing protesters demanding their expulsion over alleged misconduct.
Bassey Aniekan, chairman of the committee and senator representing Akwa Ibom North-East, described the protest as unjust and cautioned against generalising all Nigerians based on the actions of a few.
“Nigerians are hardworking people and not criminals as purported,” Aniekan said. “They are good ambassadors wherever they find themselves. While there may be a few bad individuals among them, the generality of Nigerians are peaceful and law-abiding people.”
He emphasised the historical significance of the relationship between the two countries and the importance of maintaining peace within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“Ghana and Nigeria are brothers and should continue to live in peace,” he added. “Dialogue has proven countless times to be a tool for peace and should be deployed.”
The senator also appealed to Nigerians in Ghana to remain calm and avoid retaliation.
Aniekan confirmed that Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, is handling the matter diplomatically and is in contact with the Ghanaian authorities.
He warned against the spread of misinformation and inciting language that could escalate tensions. “Nigerians should disregard videos claiming that Nigerian-owned shops and properties were being destroyed in Ghana,” he said, noting that there was no evidence backing such claims.
He commended the swift response of both nations’ diplomatic representatives in managing the situation.
