International Relations Expert, Dr. Ishmael Hlovor, has urged Ghanaians to exercise restraint and allow state institutions to handle tensions arising from the controversial “Igbo king” saga.
Speaking to ABC News GH, he warned that the current unease goes beyond the Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu matter and reflects deeper societal sentiments about the presence of Nigerians in Ghana.
“The continuous presence of Nigerians many perceived is a constant threat in markets,” he noted, calling for calm and perspective.
Dr. Hlovor cautioned Ghanaians against xenophobic tendencies, reminding citizens that Ghanaians also live and work peacefully in Nigeria.
“As much as you may not want to accept Nigerians here, we should be mindful that there are also Ghanaians in their country they are tolerating,” he said.
His remarks follow protests that erupted last weekend after Ihenetu, a Nigerian national, declared himself an Igbo king in Ghana—a move that triggered public anger and diplomatic concern.
He further raised alarm over the dangerous role of fake news and social media incitement in escalating the situation. “Security agencies must manage people putting up fake news inciting genocide,” he stated emphatically. Dr. Hlovor called for the immediate identification and prosecution of those spreading disinformation to stoke ethnic or national tensions.
Dr. Hlovor also challenged the Ghanaian media to rise above sensationalism and promote factual reporting. He stressed the media’s role in sustaining the decades-long cordial relationship between Ghana and Nigeria, saying, “We need the media to do its part and put out credible news so the nation can defeat the negative agenda by some people.” His call aligns with recent appeals by both Ghanaian and Nigerian foreign ministers who have asked the public and press to help de-escalate tensions and protect the diplomatic bond between the two West African nations.
