The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has called for restraint following a viral video showing some Ghanaians protesting and demanding the deportation of Nigerians, accusing them of behaviour inconsistent with Ghanaian norms.
In a statement, NIDCOM Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, condemned the blanket criminalisation of Nigerians living in Ghana, stressing that most Nigerians abroad are law-abiding and positive contributors to their host communities.
“Nigerians are not criminals. They are good ambassadors wherever they go. Those found wanting should be identified and dealt with according to the law,” she said.
Describing Nigeria and Ghana as “Siamese twins” bound by regional ties under ECOWAS, she appealed for continued peaceful coexistence and regional solidarity.
Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerians in Ghana to remain calm and avoid retaliation, assuring that the issue is being addressed diplomatically by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu.
She also cautioned against the spread of unverified videos alleging attacks on Nigerian-owned shops and property, saying there is no evidence supporting such claims.
Commending both Nigerian and Ghanaian High Commissioners for their efforts to de-escalate tensions, she reiterated the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the matter.
