By Olamide Martins
The Initiative Against Kidnapping, Trafficking in Persons, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse (AKH-TRACADA) is consulting with the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana regarding the planned establishment of an Igbo-Igbo village and the development of an Igbo town in Ghana.
Paulina Aidoo, the organization’s West Africa representative in Ghana, made the announcement in Abuja on Monday.
Aidoo stated that the organization’s primary objective in Ghana is to promote peace, maintain law and order, and prevent transnational crime, regardless of nationality or ethnic origin.
She added that the organization is aware of the growing public interest and media reports regarding the Igbo village project in Ghana.
He explained that while cultural preservation is important, any form of development that could be misinterpreted as ethnic isolationism or generate tension in the host country must be approached with caution.
“AKH-TRACADA will not support activities that could endanger public peace or cause a breach of law and order,” he explained.
“We are in Ghana to promote national cohesion, reduce crime, and ensure legitimate coexistence between Nigerians and their host communities.”
Aidoo emphasized that the organization’s guiding principle in Ghana is “Ghana First,” and that its activities will continue to reflect this commitment.
They added that while the organization respects the right of cultural groups to unite and preserve their identity, these groups must not compromise the sovereignty or security of the host country.
They further explained that even if landowners or local authorities approve planned construction projects, further stakeholder engagement is necessary.
However, he recommended that any initiative to create a city exclusively for one ethnic group in a foreign territory be consulted with the Ghanaian government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and Nigerian diplomatic authorities.
He added that the organization will not support agreements that could provide criminal protection or promote a separatist ideology.
“The proposal must be carefully considered to avoid ethnic divisions, legal issues, and security breaches,” he stated.
Aidoo mentioned some of the potential benefits of this initiative, such as cultural preservation, community support, and economic cooperation.
However, he noted that disadvantages could include concerns about national security, the risk of social segregation, and misinterpretation of the host country’s intentions.
He stated that AKH-TRACADA will continue to work with the Nigerian High Commission, the Ghanaian authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigerians in Ghana behave responsibly and in accordance with local laws.
Aidoo also noted that the organization has proposed a cross-sector dialogue to analyze the problem and recommend appropriate future measures.
