By: Hannah Dadzie
Ghana and Nigeria are actively working to de-escalate tensions and reaffirm their profound historic ties following a controversial viral video that ignited public outrage and social media protests in both nations.
The video, featuring inflammatory remarks from a Nigerian national, had sparked concerns over xenophobic sentiments and the safety of citizens residing in each other’s countries.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has met with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Okujwu, in Accra to address the issue.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Okujwu delivered a message of peace and solidarity from Nigerian, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, underscoring the commitment of both governments to maintaining cordial relations.
At a media briefing in Accra, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, revealed that the individual behind the video has since been reprimanded by Nigerian authorities and has issued a public apology to President Mahama, the Government, and the people of Ghana.
Mr Ablakwa emphasized that the apology was sincere and the gentleman had shown genuine remorse.
“We must not allow such regrettable incidents to divide us. Ghana and Nigeria share deep historical, anthropological, and cultural bonds. Our unity must transcend isolated incidents” the Minister said.
Highlighting past events like the 1969 Aliens Compliance Order and the 1983 “Ghana Must Go” episode, the Minister warned against rekindling tensions that once strained bilateral relations. He also noted the presence of more than 500,000 Ghanaians living in Nigeria, stressing the risk of reprisal attacks if the situation is not handled with maturity and diplomacy.
Mr Ablakwa urged the media to help de-escalate tensions and avoid promoting inflammatory rhetoric.
“Let us not walk the path of xenophobia like we witnessed in South Africa. We want peace, not violence. We must protect everyone living in Ghana, both Ghanaians and non-Ghanaians alike.” Mr Ablakwa cautioned.
Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Okujwu, leading a Nigerian delegation on a fact-finding mission, commended the Government of Ghana for its proactive and peaceful response. She expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reassured both governments of the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians in Ghana.
“The tension that gripped Nigeria following the viral videos eased significantly when we arrived in Ghana and witnessed the calm firsthand.We are grateful to President Mahama, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ghana’s traditional authorities for their commitment to peace and diplomacy.” Ambassador Odegwu-Okujwu said
She emphasized Nigeria’s desire to maintain and deepen relations with Ghana through renewed bilateral mechanisms, including the resuscitation of the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation. Madam Odegwu-Okujwu
also underscored the need to protect the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) vision, which both nations support, as a path toward greater regional integration and economic transformation.
“We will not allow the actions of a few to derail decades of brotherhood. Together, Nigeria and Ghana will continue to champion unity and prosperity for Africa.”Madam Odegwu-Okujwu added.
Both countries reaffirmed their shared Pan-African values and pledged to collaborate in promoting peace, security, and development across West Africa. Both sides expressed zero tolerance for divisive or criminal behavior by any individuals and called on all citizens to remain law-abiding.
