A new trade conflict has emerged between Nigerian and Ghanaian onion merchants, leading to a halt in cross-border shipments and raising concerns about regional trade and food supply.
The dispute, which has been building for several months, escalated after reports emerged of Nigerian traders’ onion trucks being harassed and allegedly seized in Accra.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Isa Aliyu, National President of the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN), said that suspending exports to Ghana was unavoidable.
“Our members have faced ongoing intimidation, harassment, and unfair treatment in Ghanaian markets. The recent confiscation of our trucks is unacceptable and breaches standard trade practices,” Aliyu explained.
He added that the association had ordered an immediate stop to all onion shipments to Ghana until the safety and rights of Nigerian traders are assured.
“We cannot continue exposing our traders to financial losses and danger. This suspension will remain in effect until there is a clear guarantee of a secure and lawful trading environment,” he stated.
Sources indicate the conflict worsened following disagreements between traders from both countries, which escalated into the confiscation of trucks transporting onions from Nigeria.
The situation has caused alarm and uncertainty among merchants, disrupting routine market activities.
One Nigerian trader affected by the suspension described the developments as distressing.
“We have invested heavily in this trade. Seeing our goods seized without justification is very disheartening. Many of us are stranded and unsure about the next steps,” the trader said.
NOPPMAN has called on both Nigerian and Ghanaian authorities, as well as regional organizations, to intervene quickly and prevent the conflict from escalating further.
“We urge both governments to investigate these incidents and protect Nigerian traders. Dialogue must be encouraged to resolve the dispute promptly,” Aliyu emphasized.
The association also highlighted the importance of honoring regional trade agreements under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which promote the free movement of goods and fair trade practices.
Meanwhile, NOPPMAN denied reports that armed men had attacked or seized Ghanaian trucks in Nigeria.
“There was no attack on Ghanaian vehicles. Trucks seen at the border were delayed due to the ongoing strike, not any security incident,” Aliyu clarified.
Nigeria is a major onion producer in West Africa, exporting significant quantities to neighboring countries, including Ghana. This trade supports livelihoods across the agricultural value chain, from farmers in northern Nigeria to cross-border traders and local retailers.
However, tensions between local and foreign trader groups are not uncommon, often fueled by competition, pricing disputes, and attempts to control the market.