Nigerians in Ghana are under fire for flouting laws and displacing locals. Joe Keshi warns bad behavior is fueling protests and damaging Nigeria’s image abroad
Nigerians in Ghana are drawing serious criticism from former Nigerian Ambassador to the U.S., Joe Keshi, who has blamed some expatriates for worsening relations between the two West African nations.
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In an interview with Vanguard, Keshi said the recent “Nigeria Must Go” protests in Accra and Kumasi reflect deep-seated frustration, not just xenophobia.
“Some Nigerians behave badly. They’ve displaced Ghanaian traders and flaunt wealth,” he said. “When in Rome, behave like a Roman.”
The protests, which erupted in late July, saw hundreds of Ghanaian traders demand the exit of Nigerian-owned businesses from their retail sectors.
Many accused Nigerians of violating investment laws, operating without licenses, and dominating local markets through wider networks and stronger capital access.
Keshi applauded the Tinubu administration for its swift diplomatic response but emphasized that the conduct of Nigerians abroad must improve. He warned that disregard for local laws only deepens mistrust.
Social media has intensified the tensions, spreading unverified claims of fraud, ritual practices, and land grabbing by Nigerians. Keshi urged Nigerians to show restraint and called on Ghanaians to avoid overreaction.
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He also noted the historical roots of this tension: “Ghana started the expulsion in 1969. Nigeria retaliated in the ’80s.”
