Ghana’s President Dismisses “Nigeria Must Go” Protests, Reaffirms Ties With Nigeria
Amid rising concerns over the viral “Nigeria Must Go” protests in Ghana, former President John Mahama has publicly reassured both nations of Ghana’s strong commitment to peace, regional unity, and non-discrimination.
Speaking during a diplomatic meeting with a Nigerian delegation sent by President Bola Tinubu, Mahama made it clear: Ghana will not tolerate xenophobia, and Nigeria remains a close and historic ally.
The Nigerian team, led by Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, visited Accra to calm tensions sparked by the protests, where some demonstrators held placards targeting Nigerians – particularly Igbos – with hateful language. The incident stirred public outrage and fears of growing hostility between both countries.
However, President Mahama addressed the matter with calm and clarity. He acknowledged that the tension originated from an old viral video made over a decade ago by a Nigerian in Ghana. He stressed that the situation had been blown out of proportion and was quickly handled.
“Tell President Tinubu not to lose sleep over the recent protests. Nigeria and Ghana are brothers with a shared history, and we won’t allow anything to come between us,” Mahama said.
He explained that the protests involved fewer than 50 people, and that the Ghanaian government remains committed to protecting the lives and businesses of Nigerians living within its borders.
This reaffirmation is in line with Ghana’s standing obligations under ECOWAS protocols, which guarantee the free movement of people and goods among member states. President Mahama assured the Nigerian envoy that Ghana will uphold these principles without compromise.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, speaking on behalf of Nigeria, expressed gratitude for the hospitality and swift response. She explained that Nigerians at home were deeply concerned for their fellow citizens in Ghana and had hoped for government assurance.
She also highlighted the broader purpose of the visit: to kickstart a permanent Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission, aimed at resolving cross-border tensions and addressing youth migration driven by unemployment.
“We are encouraging our youth to stay in Nigeria, and if it is necessary to migrate, they are to be great ambassadors,” she added.
In the wake of emotional protests and online outrage, this diplomatic exchange serves as a reminder that dialogue and leadership are key to preserving peace. While history may echo through phrases like “Ghana Must Go” and “Nigeria Must Go”, leaders on both sides are showing that the future depends on unity, not division.
