A Nigerian man who has been living and operating in Ghana since 2007 is currently facing a deeply stressful and complex situation after receiving an official notice to shut down his long-standing business. The notice has left him in a state of shock and uncertainty, as he has been legally operating with certified documents for many years and has maintained a strong reputation within the community. The incident highlights the challenges that long-term foreign business owners can face even when fully compliant with local laws.
A video circulating widely on social media captures the tense moment when the market chairman confronted the Nigerian businessman directly. In the footage, the chairman is seen admonishing the man for allegedly refusing to adhere to regulations, despite the fact that the man provided valid legal documents proving his right to operate his business without any infractions. The confrontation has stirred conversations online about business rights, foreign ownership, and local compliance regulations in Ghanaian markets.
The Nigerian businessman, visibly frustrated, argued that he has been an active participant in the market since 2007 and has cultivated a close working relationship with the market chairman over the years. Despite this longstanding relationship, he was denied any form of exemption, highlighting a strict interpretation of the law by the market authorities. The man insisted that he has always operated transparently and legally, with all required certifications and permits to run his business smoothly and without controversy.
Speaking to the press, the Ghanaian market chairman provided further insight into the situation. He explained that the enforcement is in line with Ghanaian regulations prohibiting foreigners from engaging in retail business while simultaneously acting as wholesalers. He emphasized that this law ensures fair competition and prevents market saturation caused by foreign traders competing directly with local entrepreneurs. The chairman stated: “A lot of Nigerians have closed their shop; you’re not different from them. 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 at the same time, doing retailing in the market, we can’t compete. The GIPC law states that all foreigners should do supply/wholesaling, not retailing.”
The unfolding situation has sparked significant online debate, with many social media users weighing in on the fairness of enforcing such laws against long-term foreign residents who have contributed positively to the local economy. While some argue that laws must be enforced equally regardless of tenure or relationships, others sympathize with the Nigerian businessman, highlighting the inconsistency and hardship faced by foreign traders who have invested years into the local market environment.
Watch the video below …