By Olamide Martins
An NGO, the Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA), has cautioned against the proposed creation of an Igbo village in Ghana, warning that the plan may exposed Nigerians to hostility.
The group said it has received reports of threats and planned protests in parts of Ghana calling for the abolition of the Igbo traditional institution in the country, and the deportation of the Eze-Igbo and his cabinet.
The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the NGO, Mr Belonwu Ezeanyaeche said this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja,
Ezeanyaeche said that many Nigerians in Ghana were currently living in fear ahead of a reported July 19 deadline issued by groups opposed to the Igbo leadership structure.
He said that the proposed ethnic-based community may be perceived as provocative by host communities and could escalate existing tensions.
He also said that while the NGO supports peaceful coexistence and cultural expression, it would not be part of any plan that may be seen as divisive or imperialistic.
“We dissociate ourselves from any plan to establish an Igbo village in Ghana. It is not only unnecessary but also potentially harmful to the safety and integration of Nigerians living here.
“”At a time when our citizens are already facing discrimination and possible attacks, pushing for a mono-ethnic settlement will only deepen the wedge between Nigerians and their host communities.
“We cannot afford another diplomatic or security fallout,” he said.
The NGO boss, said that the idea could be misinterpreted as a form of cultural dominance, especially in a sovereign country with established traditional systems.
He said while cultural identity remained important, such initiatives must not endanger the lives of law-abiding citizens or strain Nigeria-Ghana relations.
He, therefore urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to engage the Ghanaian Government at diplomatic levels to ensure the protection of Nigerians
He added that the FG should suspend or discourage unrecognised traditional titles and ethnic-based settlements in foreign countries
“Government should promote inclusive Nigerian associations in diaspora communities.
“They should also provide legal and consular support for Nigerians facing threats and ossue clear guidelines on cultural expressions abroad to prevent conflict,”he emphasised.
Ezeanyaeche, however, called on community leaders in Ghana to act with caution and prioritise peaceful coexistence.
He assured that the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana had commenced consultations with local stakeholders to defuse tensions and discourage any acts that may endanger lives or diplomatic relations.
The Eze-Igbo title is not officially recognised by Ghanaian law, it has historically served as a cultural figurehead for the Igbo community.
