Ghanaians Protest Alleged Crimes, Call for Nigerians to Leave

A group of protesters in Ghana have staged a demonstration over alleged criminal activities involving some foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians. The protest, which took place earlier this week, saw demonstrators carrying placards with messages expressing concerns about issues such as rising crime, prostitution, and ritual-related incidents.

In videos circulating online, demonstrators gathered in large numbers, holding signs with inscriptions like: “Armed robbery and violent attacks must stop,” “Our health is at stake due to rising prostitution,” “Who protects the rights and freedoms of Ghanaians?” and “Stop kidnappings and ritual killings.”

Protesters also referenced alleged incidents of violence, including the death of a man reportedly linked to a Nigerian national in Accra. One protester, a woman appearing to be in her 30s, called for the deportation of Nigerians, citing what she described as disregard for Ghanaian laws and customs. Another demonstrator accused foreign nationals of dominating local markets and breaching commercial regulations.

There were also controversial claims that ethnic groups within the Nigerian community have established cultural leadership structures in Ghana, raising concerns among some locals about land ownership and economic influence.

The situation has drawn historical comparisons to Nigeria’s 1983 deportation of undocumented West African immigrants, an event which led to the term “Ghana Must Go”—a reference to the large checked bags used during mass departures.

As of press time, the Ghanaian government had not issued an official statement regarding the protest or the status of Nigerian nationals residing in the country. It remains unclear whether any legal or diplomatic measures will follow in response to the demonstrations.