Onion marketers suspend exports to Ghana over trader harassment

Nigeria’s onion trade with Ghana has been thrown into uncertainty after exporters announced an immediate suspension of shipments, citing persistent harassment and rising tensions in Ghanaian markets.

The decision, announced by the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN), follows a series of disputes involving Nigerian traders, particularly at Kotoku Market in Accra.

NOPPMAN President Isa Aliyu said the action became necessary after repeated cases of intimidation and what he described as the unlawful seizure of trucks carrying onions owned by Nigerian traders.

“Our members have faced sustained harassment and interference in their legitimate business activities. The confiscation of onion trucks is a serious violation that we cannot ignore,” Aliyu said.

He explained that the association had no choice but to halt all onion transportation to Ghana to protect its members from further losses and insecurity.

“We have directed an immediate suspension of onion exports along the Ghana corridor. This will remain until the issues are fully addressed and our traders can operate safely,” he added.

The crisis escalated after a disagreement between Nigerian and Ghanaian trader groups reportedly led to the seizure of trucks transporting onions, further heightening tensions and disrupting commercial activities.

A trader affected by the development expressed frustration over the situation.
“This is our livelihood. To have our goods taken without explanation is devastating. Many traders are now stranded and counting losses,” he said.

NOPPMAN has called on authorities in both countries and regional bodies to step in and resolve the dispute before it worsens.

“We urge the governments of Nigeria and Ghana to investigate these incidents, ensure the safety of our traders, and facilitate dialogue between all parties,” Aliyu said.

The association also stressed the need to respect regional trade agreements that guarantee the free and fair movement of goods across West Africa.

Aliyu also dismissed reports alleging that armed men attacked and seized Ghanaian trucks in Nigeria, describing the claims as false.

“There was no attack on any Ghanaian truck. The vehicles seen at the border were there due to the ongoing suspension of trade, not because of any security incident,” he clarified.

Nigeria is a major supplier of onions to Ghana and other neighbouring countries, making the trade a vital source of income for farmers and merchants alike.

However, recurring disputes between local and foreign traders have often disrupted the market, usually driven by competition and control of trade activities.

With exports now on hold, stakeholders warn of possible supply shortages in Ghana and financial losses for Nigerian farmers if the impasse is not quickly resolved.