Ghana Reassures Nigeria: No Plans to Deport Nigerians, Says Foreign Minister Ablakwa
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has assured Nigeria that the Ghanaian government has no intention of deporting Nigerian nationals, following a viral video that sparked protests and calls for such action.
The clarification came during a meeting on July 30, 2025, with a Nigerian fact-finding delegation led by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegu Ojukwu, addressing tensions that have drawn the attention of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The controversy stemmed from a video by a Nigerian individual, widely condemned for inflammatory remarks, prompting a small demonstration in Accra demanding the deportation of Nigerians. Ablakwa, speaking to the delegation, condemned the video, noting, “We were all outraged when we saw that video. Our counterparts from Nigeria have reprimanded the gentleman, who has apologized publicly to President Mahama, the government, and people of Ghana.” The individual, whose identity was not disclosed, expressed contrition in a prior meeting, issuing a public apology.
Ablakwa emphasized the deep ties between Ghana and Nigeria, highlighting that over 500,000 Ghanaians reside in Nigeria, making mutual respect crucial to avoid reprisal attacks. “It is absolutely crucial that this is managed very well,” he urged, calling for calm among Ghanaians. Ojukwu, after assessing the situation, dismissed exaggerated media reports in Nigeria of widespread anti-Nigerian protests, stating, “I saw no tires burning or placards urging deportations. President Mahama and President Bola are like brothers.” She urged Nigerians in Ghana to respect local laws and confirmed ongoing stakeholder engagements to prevent future tensions.
Both ministers reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship, with Ghana’s recent passport fee reduction and Nigeria’s support for Ghanaian students at the University of Memphis cited as examples of cooperation. Posts on X, including from @JoyNewsOnTV, praised the diplomatic response, though users like @SIKAOFFICIAL1 called for vigilance to curb xenophobic rhetoric. The governments’ swift action aims to preserve the longstanding harmony between the two nations.
