Bianca Visits Ghana to Douse Rising Tensions, Assures Nigerians of Safety Amid Deportation Protests

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has downplayed fears surrounding the recent anti-Nigerian protests in Ghana, stating that the situation is under control and should not cause panic.

Her comments followed a diplomatic visit to Accra aimed at addressing public concerns over calls by some Ghanaian traders for Nigerians to leave the country. The protest, which gained traction over the weekend, sparked unease among members of the Nigerian community.

Speaking during a joint press briefing with Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said her visit was prompted by online videos showing heightened emotions and hostile rhetoric.

"Contrary to the viral clips circulating online, I have not encountered any civil unrest or physical aggression on the streets of Accra since arriving,” she said. “There are no widespread signs of hostility, which shows the Ghanaian government is actively managing the situation."

She emphasized Nigeria’s continued commitment to regional harmony and called for restraint on all sides, noting that her team has already engaged with community leaders and government officials to ease tensions.

Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ablakwa, reiterated his country’s commitment to the protection of all legal residents. “We will safeguard everyone within our borders, irrespective of nationality. However, we urge all residents to respect Ghana’s laws and values.”

The Ghanaian government, he noted, has initiated dialogue with Nigerian community leaders to promote understanding and curb inflammatory actions that might escalate tensions.

The diplomatic visit follows a protest staged by Ghanaian retail traders who accused some Nigerians of engaging in unfair business practices and criminal activity. Chanting “Nigerians must go,” the demonstrators called on authorities to act swiftly.

Though isolated, the demonstration sparked anxiety online, raising fears of xenophobia. The Nigerian foreign ministry responded swiftly, deploying Odumegwu-Ojukwu to lead a fact-finding mission.

Nigerians in Ghana are advised to remain calm, law-abiding, and report any threats to the appropriate authorities.