Ghana and Nigeria Urge Calm Amid Rising Tensions Amongst Nationals
Accra, Ghana – 31 July, 2025 – Ghana and Nigeria have called for calm following recent tensions sparked by a viral social media statement attributed to Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, a Nigerian national claiming to be an Igbo king in Ghana. The statement led to protests in Ghana and raised concerns about the safety of nationals from both countries.
Ghana's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Okujwu, led a joint appeal for calm during a press conference in Accra. They emphasized the importance of maintaining the longstanding cordial relationship between the two countries and urged the media to avoid promoting inflammatory statements.
Ablakwa warned that unchecked tensions could lead to violence, injuries or even deaths, citing historical events in the 1980s when both countries expelled each other's nationals due to diplomatic tensions. He also noted that approximately 500,000 Ghanaians live in Nigeria, making reprisal attacks a concern.
Both ministers commended each other's governments for their maturity and commitment to peace. Ablakwa assured the Nigerian delegation that Ghana would ensure the safety of all nationals living in the country, while Odumegwu-Okujwu praised Ghana's government for their hospitality and swift efforts to defuse the situation.
The Nigerian Minister expressed concern over misinformation circulating on social media, which sparked tension in Nigeria over the safety of Nigerian nationals in Ghana. However, upon arrival, the delegation observed a calmer environment than expected, reiterating the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and Ghana.
Both countries are working to maintain peace and stability, emphasizing the importance of law-abiding behavior and respect for each other's nationals. As Ablakwa noted, "Once you visit Ghana, respect our laws... and we are very happy to extend to you the quintessential Ghanaian hospitality."
Source: Lead News Online
