AKH-TRACADA, Nigerian High Commission engage Ghanaian stakeholders on proposed Igbo village

 

By Olamide Martins

The Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA) says it is working with the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana regarding discussions around the proposed installation of an Eze-Igbo and the development of an Igbo-only city in the Republic of Ghana.

Mrs Paulina Aidoo, the organisation’s west African resident representative in Ghana, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.

Aidoo said that the organisation’s primary objective in Ghana remains to support peace, law enforcement, and prevent transnational crimes, irrespective of nationality or ethnic background.

She said the organisation was aware of growing public concerns and media reports surrounding the concept of creating an exclusive Igbo village in Ghana.

According to her, while cultural preservation is important, any form of development that may be misinterpreted as ethnic isolationism or create tension in the host country should be approached with caution.

“AKH-TRACADA will not support any activity that could threaten public peace or lead to the breakdown of law and order,” she said.

“We are in Ghana to support national cohesion, reduce crime and uphold lawful coexistence between Nigerians and their host communities.”

Aidoo stressed that the organisation’s operational slogan in Ghana is “Ghana First”, and that its activities would continue to reflect that commitment.

She said although the organisation respects the right of cultural groups to associate and preserve their identity, such efforts must not undermine the sovereignty or security of the host nation.

She also said even if the proposed development had the consent of landowners or local authorities, a wider engagement of stakeholders was necessary.

She, however, advised that any move towards the establishment of a city exclusively for a single ethnic group on foreign soil should involve consultation with the Ghanaian government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and Nigerian diplomatic authorities.

She added that the organisation would not support any arrangement that may be used to harbour criminals or promote secessionist ideology.

“The proposal must be properly examined to avoid ethnic division, legal complications, and security breaches,” she said.

Aidoo listed some of the possible advantages of such a development to include cultural preservation, community support and economic collaboration.

She, however, said the drawbacks could include national security concerns, risk of social segregation, and misinterpretation of intent by the host country.

She said that AKH-TRACADA would continue to work with the Nigerian High Commission, Ghanaian authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigerians in Ghana conduct themselves responsibly and in accordance with local laws.

She also said the organisation had proposed a multi-stakeholder dialogue to review the matter and recommend appropriate steps going forward.

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