******NIDO Africa Chairman Refutes ‘Nigerian Kingdom’ Propaganda in Ghana, Calls for Calm and Sustained Bilateral Relations
ABUJA, NIGERIA – Professor Jude Osakwe, Continental Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO) Africa, today issued a strong statement debunking recent inflammatory reports alleging that Nigerians are building a “kingdom” in Ghana. Professor Osakwe unequivocally stated that such claims are false, baseless, and designed to sow discord between the two sister nations.
“Let me be absolutely clear: the propaganda circulating that any Nigerian is building a ‘kingdom’ or has purchased land for such a purpose in Ghana is an outright lie,” Professor Osakwe declared. “No land was ever bought by anyone for this fabricated purpose.”
Professor Osakwe clarified the true context, explaining that the abandoned plan, initiated over 12 years ago, was to establish a shopping mall for Nigerian businesses and develop a focused area for ease of commerce, akin to “Chinatowns” globally or similar dedicated business hubs. This initiative aimed to address challenges faced by Nigerian traders and foster easier business interactions.
“This proposal was made at a press conference 12 years ago but was subsequently abandoned,” Osakwe explained. “Unfortunately, for political reasons and alleged malicious intent, Zairus the blogger and Hassan Ayariga, a disgruntled politician, have disinterred this old press release and presented it as recent news, creating an entirely false narrative.”
Professor Osakwe emphasized the strong and historically cordial relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, urging both citizens to maintain peace and not succumb to divisive propaganda.
“Nigeria and Ghana share a wonderful, long-standing relationship that must be preserved at all costs. The information being circulated in certain media outlets is untrue,” he stated. “I implore all Nigerians not to initiate any reprisal attacks or actions based on these fabricated stories.”
He further commended the Ghanaian government, the good people of Ghana, the Nigerian Community in Ghana, and the Nigeria High Commission in Ghana for their roles in fostering good relations.
Addressing the economic situation in Ghana, Professor Osakwe added, “Reports from Ghana indicate that the Ghanaian economy is stable and the government is performing well. Investors should not be discouraged by the baseless propaganda of Hassan Ayariga, who is clearly attempting to score cheap political points.”
Professor Osakwe stressed that the vast majority of Nigerians in Ghana are law-abiding investors and contributors, not criminals. He called on any Nigerian engaged in illegal activities to desist immediately.
The NIDO Africa chairman also urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to engage Ghanaian authorities to call Hassan Ayariga and Zairus to order, noting that Ayariga has a history of targeting Nigerians.
He specifically commended the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for her proactive and unwavering support for diasporans in times of crisis.
Professor Osakwe also commended the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Bianca Ojukwu, for her vital engagement with Ghanaian authorities. Her current diplomatic efforts are specifically aimed at ensuring the security and well-being of Nigerian lives within Ghana, a crucial initiative that underscores the Nigerian government’s unwavering commitment to protecting its diaspora community abroad.
“Any Nigerian found to be supporting this evil agenda against fellow Nigerians should be identified and held accountable,” Osakwe added, urging Nigerians to always be law-abiding and uphold the spirit of ECOWAS, which promotes regional integration and cooperation.
Professor Osakwe concluded by highlighting Nigeria’s significant contributions to Africa, emphasizing the richness of African culture, language, and identity as valuable assets for tourism and development that should be tapped and celebrated rather than undermined by misinformation