Tensions are rising in Ghana as some citizens staged a protest this week, demanding the expulsion of Nigerians from the country over allegations of prostitution, ritual killings, kidnapping, and illegal business activities.
In a now-viral video circulating on Tuesday, dozens of protesters were seen marching through the streets, holding placards with strong messages such as:
“Armed robbery and violent attacks must stop”
“Our health at stake due to mass prostitution”
“Nigerians are kidnapping and using people for rituals”
“Our kids are going missing because of Igbos”
“Who protects the rights and freedom of Ghanaians?”
One of the placards also featured the photo of a man allegedly killed by a Nigerian in Accra, intensifying the emotional response of the crowd.
“Nigerians Must Leave” – Protesters Speak Out
In the video, a visibly agitated woman in her 30s declared:
“Nigerians must go. You can’t come to someone’s country and behave anyhow. We’ve had enough.”
Another protester accused Nigerians—particularly those of Igbo descent—of taking over local markets and violating Ghanaian laws that restrict foreign involvement in certain business sectors.
“These Igbos are in every part of the country, targeting our markets and taking over our land. They even have an Igbo king in Ghana. This is a takeover, not migration,” he said.
“It’s only a matter of time—we’ll reclaim our country.”
Historical Echo: “Ghana Must Go” Reversed?
The protest has reignited memories of the infamous “Ghana Must Go” directive in 1983, when Nigeria’s then-President Shehu Shagari ordered the deportation of over two million undocumented immigrants, mostly Ghanaians. The mass expulsion led to the iconic checked travel bags known as “Ghana Must Go.”
At the time, President Shagari had said:
“Illegal immigrants should not be given any notice. If you break the law, you must pay for it.”
Now, some in Ghana appear to be calling for a similar response, but in reverse.
Official Silence Amid Rising Tensions
As of the time of this report, the Ghanaian government has not issued an official statement regarding the protests or the demands to deport Nigerians, regardless of their legal status in the country.
The situation continues to draw concern from regional observers, raising questions about rising xenophobia, diplomatic implications between Ghana and Nigeria, and the safety of Nigerians living in Ghana.
