Bassey Aniekan, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, has urged calm and restraint following a viral social media video showing some Ghanaians protesting and allegedly calling for Nigerians to be deported over claims of misconduct.

The video, which has sparked concern across both countries, shows some Ghanaians accusing Nigerians of behavior inconsistent with Ghanaian societal norms.

Reacting to the development, Aniekan described the protest and the resulting generalisation of Nigerians as criminals as “deeply concerning and deserving of outright condemnation.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the senator said, “Nigerians are known for their hard work and resilience. They are good ambassadors of the country wherever they go.

“While we do not deny that a few bad elements may exist among them, it is unfair and dangerous to paint the entire community with a broad brush.”

Aniekan emphasised the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, highlighting their shared cultural, economic, and political ties as members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

“Ghana and Nigeria are not just neighbours; we are brothers. In the spirit of regional integration and cooperation, we must continue to foster peace and understanding,” he said.

The lawmaker cautioned against retaliatory actions and inciteful rhetoric from both citizens and public commentators, warning that inflammatory remarks could escalate an already tense situation.

“Dialogue remains our most powerful tool in conflict resolution, and we must not allow misinformation or provocation to derail the efforts already in motion to maintain peace,” he added.

He also advised Nigerians in Ghana to remain calm and avoid any actions that could be seen as retaliatory.

“Let us resist any urge for reprisals. The matter is receiving diplomatic attention at the highest level,” he said.

Senator Aniekan revealed that the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, has already engaged Ghanaian authorities and is working to de-escalate the situation.

He commended both the Nigerian and Ghanaian High Commissioners for their swift interventions and diplomatic efforts.

The Senator further dismissed viral claims that Nigerian-owned shops and properties were being destroyed in Ghana, noting that there was currently no verifiable evidence to support such claims.

He encouraged citizens to avoid spreading unverified information capable of inciting fear or violence.

The Senate Committee assured Nigerians at home and abroad that it is monitoring the situation closely and pledged continued support for diplomatic engagement to ensure the protection of Nigerians in Ghana. (BusinessDay)