Senate committee on diaspora condemns calls for deportation of Nigerians from Ghana

Bassey Aniekan, chairman of the senate committee on diaspora and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), has condemned calls by some Ghanaians for the deportation of Nigerians from their country.

In a video circulating on social media, a group of Ghanaians staged a protest demanding that Nigerians be sent back to their home country, alleging that their behaviour does not align with Ghanaian norms.

Reacting to the development, Aniekan, senator representing Akwa Ibom north-east, said it is wrong to generalise Nigerians as criminals, adding that such “widespread indignation” should be condemned.

“Nigerians are hardworking people and not criminals as purported,” he 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.”

The senator stressed the importance of the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, urging both countries to uphold peace and unity in the spirit of ECOWAS and regional integration.

“Ghana and Nigeria are brothers and should continue to live in peace,” Aniekan said.

“Dialogue has proven countless times to be a tool for peace and should be deployed.”

The senator appealed for calm and urged Nigerians living in Ghana to exercise restraint and avoid provocation or reprisal attacks.

Aniekan confirmed that the issue is being addressed diplomatically by Bianca Ojukwu, minister of state for foreign affairs, who is in contact with Ghanaian authorities.

He cautioned against the use of inciteful language by individuals on either side, warning that such statements could escalate tensions.

Aniekan also advised Nigerians to disregard videos claiming that Nigerian-owned shops and properties were being destroyed in Ghana, saying there was no evidence to support such claims.

He commended the efforts of the Nigerian and Ghanaian high commissioners, as well as the minister of state, for acting swiftly to contain the situation.