Nigerian Onion Trucks Seized in Ghana, Urgent Action Needed

The Regional Observatory of Onion in West and Central Africa (ORO) has expressed alarm regarding the ongoing seizure of Nigerian onion trucks in Ghana, urging immediate intervention from the Federal Government to prevent a regional trade crisis. ORO President Isa Aliyu reported that several trucks loaded with onions have been stranded at Kotoku Market in Ghana since Tuesday, July 21, due to alleged actions by Ghanaian onion traders preventing offloading.

This situation is inflicting heavy losses on Nigerian farmers, exporters, and transporters, with the potential to undermine Nigeria’s cross-border trade and violate ECOWAS trade protocols. Despite efforts by the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana and the ECOWAS Trade Directorate, the trucks remain detained.

Aliyu emphasized the perishable nature of onions, warning that delays lead to significant economic losses and deterioration of quality. He highlighted that Ghanaian traders have unrestricted access to Nigerian markets, while Nigeria exports about 16 trucks of onions to Ghana weekly.

Aliyu called for diplomatic engagement with Ghanaian authorities and warned of a stakeholders' meeting if the trucks are not released by 2 p.m. on Friday.