The National Association of Ghanaian Communities in Nigeria (NAGHACON) has appealed to the Presidents of Ghana and Nigeria to intervene in the ongoing dispute involving Ghanaian-owned JonahCapital, warning that the matter could negatively affect relations between the two countries if not properly addressed.
The association raised the concerns following a visit to River Park Estate in Abuja, where it claimed to have witnessed the destruction of facilities belonging to JonahCapital, including the Gallery Clubhouse, gatehouse and other structures.
According to NAGHACON, the alleged demolition targeted JonahCapital’s assets, while facilities belonging to other companies operating within the estate were left untouched.
Addressing a press conference, President of the association, Lukman Tetteh, expressed concern that actions against the company were continuing despite an ownership dispute over the estate currently being before the courts.
“We are concerned that a matter currently before the courts is not being allowed to run its course, while these actions continue to be taken against JonahCapital’s staff and assets,” he said.
The association further cautioned that unresolved disputes involving foreign-owned businesses could fuel tensions between nationals of the two countries if not handled in accordance with the law.
Drawing parallels with xenophobic attacks in South Africa, NAGHACON warned against actions that could heighten hostility towards African migrants.
“Today, we are all witnesses to the xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has led to reprisals and, tragically, the deaths of African migrants,” the association stated.
NAGHACON also noted that JonahCapital had previously faced allegations of forgery but claimed the matter was resolved after an investigation by Nigeria’s Attorney-General, who reportedly cleared the company’s directors of wrongdoing.
The association is therefore calling on the governments of Ghana and Nigeria to ensure the safety of Ghanaians associated with the company and allow the courts to determine the ownership dispute without interference.
The ownership dispute over River Park Estate remains before the Nigerian courts.
