A Nigerian businessman who has lived in Ghana since 2007 is facing the closure of his shop following an enforcement order from local market authorities.
In a viral video circulating online, the market chairman was seen confronting the trader, accusing him of disregarding established rules.
The businessman, whose name has not been disclosed, defended his operations, insisting he possesses all the legal documents required to run his business.
He noted that he has operated in the same market for more than 15 years and enjoys a cordial relationship with the chairman.
Despite his appeals, authorities declined to grant any exemption. Speaking to reporters, the market chairman accused Nigerian traders of breaching Ghana’s trade regulations, which prohibit foreigners from engaging in both wholesale and retail activities.
“A lot of Nigerians have closed their shops; you’re not different from them,” the chairman said. “We called the Nigerians to meet with them concerning issues in the markets. We’re going to prosecute any Ghanaian fronting for a Nigerian.
The problem is that they are invading the market by wholesaling and retailing at the same time. We can’t compete. The GIPC law states that all foreigners should do supply or wholesaling, not retailing.
The incident has sparked renewed debate about Ghana’s investment laws and their impact on foreign traders, particularly Nigerians, who form a significant portion of the trading community in major markets across the country.