VeryDarkMan Storms Ghana Amid Protests Targeting Nigerians, Shops Locked in Accra and Kumasi
Accra, Ghana — Popular Nigerian activist and social media influencer VeryDarkMan (Martins Vincent Otse) has arrived in Ghana at a time when protests against Nigerians are intensifying. Demonstrations branded “Nigerians Must Go” have led to the closure of hundreds of Nigerian-owned shops in major markets, sparking diplomatic and social concerns.
Protests and Shop Lockdowns
Over the past weeks, protesters in Accra, Kumasi, and Kasoa carried placards with strong messages such as “Our children are missing because of Nigerians” and “Nigerians Must Go.” The protests have been fueled by accusations linking Nigerians to crime, prostitution, and ritual activities, sparking fears of xenophobia.
Meanwhile, members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) have locked up numerous shops belonging to Nigerians, citing the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act. Section 27 of the Act restricts foreign nationals from engaging in retail trade unless they meet strict requirements, including a staggering US $1 million capital investment. Many Nigerian traders say this law unfairly targets them, leaving them stranded and unable to survive.
VeryDarkMan’s Intervention
In videos shared on his Instagram and Facebook pages, VeryDarkMan can be seen interacting with affected Nigerians in Ghana. His presence has brought renewed attention to the issue and amplified the voices of those who feel oppressed. In one viral post, he asked:
“Why are Nigerian shops being locked, why are our people being pushed out, when ECOWAS protocols guarantee free movement and trade? If Ghanaians can live and do business in Lagos or Abuja without harassment, why should Nigerians face discrimination here?”
His intervention has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters hail him as a voice of justice, while critics worry that his bold approach could inflame tensions between Ghana and Nigeria. Regardless, his activism has forced both nations to confront the growing crisis.
Diplomatic Stakes
The situation threatens to strain Nigeria–Ghana relations. The Nigerian government has in the past raised concerns over the harassment of its citizens in Ghana, and analysts say ECOWAS may need to step in if tensions escalate. For now, the fate of Nigerian traders in Ghana remains uncertain, and many are relying on activists like VeryDarkMan to keep their plight in the global spotlight.