The attention of the All Nigeria Community (ANC) in Ghana has been drawn to a viral video alleging that the leader of the Igbo community in Ghana intends to establish a “kingdom” in the country.
In response, the President of the All Nigeria Community, Chief Bayo Albert Asaolu, promptly alerted various Nigerian leaders in Ghana about the circulating video and issued a statement to set the record straight and prevent further misinterpretation.
βThe message calls for an urgent response to clarify the facts,β Chief Asaolu stated. βHence, this press release.β
He emphasized the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, which has lasted for over a century. “The efforts of our generation should focus on strengthening this relationship,” he said. “I commend our brother who spoke in the video for his professionalism.”
However, he addressed claims of disunity among Nigerians in Ghana; βLet me correct the impression that Nigerians in Ghana are not united. I make bold to say that we are united. Though there may be pockets of disagreement among usβas is common in every human societyβwe are effectively managing ourselves. I commend my people for their tenacity in maintaining peace.β
Chief Asaolu stressed that no foreign tribe can constitutionally or traditionally establish a kingdom in a sovereign country. “Leaders of foreign communities are appointed to monitor the welfare of their peopleβnot to create kingdoms as alleged,β he explained. βMy executive team will address the issue raised in the video.β
He also called on Nigerians in Ghana to remain calm and law-abiding. βDo not engage in any actions that could lead to trouble,β he warned. βI am in close communication with both the Nigerian High Commission and the Government of Ghana. I am confident that this matter will be handled appropriately and resolved soon.β
Addressing Ghanaians directly, he said, βPlease feel free to consult my office if any issue arises involving Nigerians. Diplomatically and otherwise, we are very close as people. We intermarry, and our histories are interwoven.
For instance, it is recorded that the Ga people migrated from Ile Ife, the ancient town of Oduduwa. Ghanaβs first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, also collaborated effectively with Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (The Great Zik of Africa) toward the independence of both countries. Our efforts should be focused on building our economies, not on trivial matters that could divide us or create hostility.β
He concluded by sharing plans for upcoming projects: βMy executive is working assiduously on a trade collaboration and upcoming conferences that will benefit both countries. We are finalizing plans, and I urge all Nigerians here to be law-abiding. Ghanaians are great peopleβso long as you comport yourself properly.β
Chief Asaolu also joined millions of Nigerians in mourning the passing of former Nigerian President, General Muhammadu Buhari, who died recently in a London hospital. βPresident Buhari was a model of integrity and upright leadership,β he said. βI pray that God grants his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.β