By Emiola Osifeso
A viral video shared by @AsakyGRN on X on Wednesday shows a group of Ghanaians forcibly shutting down a Nigerian-owned shop in Ghana despite the owner’s protests.
The incident highlights the growing tensions between Ghana and Nigeria, with some Ghanaians reportedly targeting Nigerian businesses in the country.
In the footage, the shop owner pleaded with the enforcement officers, insisting he was not in Ghana illegally.
“I am not in Ghana illegally. I am not one of those Nigerians in Ghana illegally. I have a Ghana passport, and all my children have Ghana passports. The government of Ghana knows that I’m here doing business,” he said.
However, his pleas were dismissed. One of the officers responded:
“Enforcement is not about those legally or illegally… Are you not a Nigerian? The enforcement is against Nigerians doing business in Ghana.”
The leader of the enforcement team added, “Have you seen any Ghanaian in Nigeria doing business or owning a shop like you?”
The video quickly went viral, sparking outrage and heated debate on social media.
X user @BenhardSindimba cautioned: “When two brothers fight, a stranger reaps the harvest.”
Another user, @THE_CRAFT3R, referenced history, noting: “Once upon a time it was Nigerians chasing Ghanaians out of Naija, hence the famous slogan (Ghana must go). Today it is Ghanaians chasing Nigerians out of Ghana.”
Others accused the enforcement officers of envy. @Esereigns wrote: “All I see is jealousy, knowing fully well he is a Nigerian and his business is doing well. Imagine listening to what that man is saying. Have you seen any Ghanaian shop in Nigeria? Nigerians accept anybody any day.”
Some users reminded Ghanaians of the warm reception their citizens have historically received in Nigeria.
@Allistaishere recalled: “When I was a child in Nigeria, the biggest shoe vendor was Ghanaian. The biggest rice importer was also Ghanaian, including one of the largest generator sellers and repairers. No Nigerian harassed them. Instead, most young boys went to learn the trade from them.”
He continued, emphasizing Nigeria’s culture of inclusivity: “A typical Nigerian doesn’t see success as a threat, but as a motivation. But here, you hear, ‘Do Ghanaians have shops in Nigeria?’ That’s the real state of heart. What baffles me is that these same Ghanaians shouting ‘Nigerians must go’ submit to the Chinese, Lebanese, and Indians, who dominate businesses and even exploit local resources.”
For others, the incident was a reminder of shared cultural ties. @youngblesstmoni reflected: “Honestly, this hurts to see because my nanny in Nigeria growing up was Ghanaian. She was family to us. That’s why I believe Ghanaians and Nigerians are far too connected by love, work, and history to let division win. We need unity, not fear.”
The video has reignited long-standing debates on xenophobia, business rivalry, and the strained relations between Nigeria and Ghana, as calls grow for diplomacy and dialogue to ease the tension.
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