Nigerian onion traders halt exports to Ghana over harrassment, seizure trucks

A fresh trade dispute has erupted between Nigeria and Ghana, forcing Nigerian onion traders to suspend all cross-border shipments indefinitely. The decision follows weeks of rising tensions and the alleged seizure of Nigerian-owned trucks in Accra.

The National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN) announced the suspension on Sunday, citing persistent harassment, intimidation, and what it described as unfair treatment of its members in Ghanaian markets.

“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,” said Isa Aliyu, the association’s national president.

Aliyu 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.

Traders Left Stranded

Industry sources say the dispute intensified after a disagreement between Ghanaian and Nigerian traders escalated, leading to the seizure of trucks transporting onions from Nigeria. The situation has created fear and uncertainty, disrupting normal market operations on both sides of the border.

One affected Nigerian trader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the development 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 said.

Calls for Urgent Intervention

NOPPMAN has called on the governments of Nigeria and Ghana, as well as regional bodies such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), to intervene urgently 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 stressed the need to uphold existing ECOWAS trade agreements, which promote the free movement of goods and fair trade practices across member states.

Association Denies Retaliatory Attacks

Meanwhile, NOPPMAN dismissed circulating reports that armed men had 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 supports 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 uncommon, often driven by competition, pricing tensions, and market control issues.

As of Monday morning, no official statement had been issued by Ghanaian authorities or trader associations in response to the suspension.