A fresh trade dispute has erupted between Nigerian and Ghanaian onion traders, forcing a suspension of cross-border supply and raising concerns over regional commerce and food distribution.
The crisis, which has been simmering for months, reached a boiling point following reports of harassment and the alleged seizure of onion-laden trucks belonging to Nigerian traders at the Kotoku Market in Accra, Ghana.
Announcing the decision, National President of the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Isa Aliyu, said the suspension of onion transportation to Ghana was unavoidable.
“Our members have endured persistent harassment, intimidation, and unfair treatment in Ghanaian markets.
The recent confiscation of our trucks is unacceptable and a clear violation of trade norms,” Aliyu said.
He added that the association had directed an immediate halt to all onion shipments along the Ghana corridor until the safety and rights of Nigerian traders are guaranteed.
“We cannot continue to expose our traders to losses and danger. This suspension will remain until there is a clear commitment to restoring a safe and lawful trading environment,” he stated.
The dispute reportedly intensified after a disagreement between Ghanaian and Nigerian traders escalated into the seizure of trucks transporting onions from Nigeria.
Industry sources said the situation had created fear and uncertainty among traders, disrupting normal market operations.
A Nigerian trader affected by the development described the situation as alarming.
“We have invested heavily in this business. Seeing our goods seized without justification is heartbreaking. Many of us are now stranded and unsure of what comes next,” the trader who preferred anonymity lamented.
NOPPMAN called on authorities in both Nigeria and Ghana, as well as regional bodies, to urgently intervene to prevent further escalation.
“We urge both governments to investigate these incidents and ensure the protection of Nigerian traders. Dialogue must be facilitated to resolve this dispute quickly,” Aliyu said.
The association also emphasised the need to uphold existing regional trade agreements under the Economic Community of West African States, which promote free movement of goods and fair trade practices.
Meanwhile, the association dismissed circulating reports claiming that armed men attacked and seized Ghanaian trucks in Nigeria.
“There was no attack on any Ghanaian truck. The vehicles seen at the border were there as a result of the ongoing strike, not due to any security incident,” Aliyu clarified.
Nigeria is one of West Africa’s leading producers of onions, supplying large volumes to neighbouring countries, including Ghana.
The trade plays a critical role in supporting livelihoods across the agricultural value chain, from farmers in northern Nigeria to cross-border merchants and retailers.
However, disputes between local trader groups and foreign participants are not new, often driven by competition, pricing tensions, and market control issues.
By: Animashaun Salman
