The Regional Observatory of Onion in West and Central Africa (ORO/WCA) has formally requested the Ghanaian government to assist in securing the release of five trucks carrying Nigerian onions currently held at the Kotoku Market. Aliyu Isah, who leads both the regional body and the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, stated that local Ghanaian traders have obstructed these trucks from unloading their goods since Tuesday.
Because onions spoil quickly, the organization warns that the ongoing standoff is causing significant financial harm to farmers and business owners. Despite previous attempts to find a solution through the ECOWAS Trade Directorate and trade ministries in both nations, the issue persists. Isah noted that while Ghanaian merchants operate in Nigeria without restriction, Nigerian exporters are facing unfair barriers in Ghana. He argued that these actions undermine regional trade agreements like ECOWAS and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Isah, who maintains a neutral stance as head of the regional observatory, alleged that certain Ghanaian traders are trying to monopolize the market. The organization remains hopeful that diplomatic discussions will lead to an immediate resolution to ensure fair treatment for all traders involved in cross-border agriculture.
