The National Association of Ghanaian Communities in Nigeria (NAGHACON) has expressed concern over the alleged destruction of Ghanaian-owned JonahCapital’s assets at River Park Estate in Abuja, warning that the dispute could strain relations between Ghana and Nigeria if not resolved through legal channels.

At a press conference following a visit to the estate, NAGHACON said it observed damage to facilities belonging to JonahCapital, including the Gallery Clubhouse, gatehouse and other structures, while properties belonging to other companies operating within the estate were left untouched.

The association’s President, Lukman Tetteh, said the continued actions against the company’s assets and staff were troubling, particularly as ownership of the estate remains the subject of an ongoing court case.

“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.

NAGHACON urged all parties to respect the judicial process and refrain from actions that could undermine the rule of law.

The association also cautioned that the dispute should not be allowed to fuel hostility towards Ghanaians living and working in Nigeria.

Drawing parallels with xenophobic violence in South Africa, NAGHACON said unresolved tensions involving foreign nationals could have wider regional consequences if not handled carefully.

“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 said.

It further noted that JonahCapital had previously faced allegations of forgery, but said those allegations were resolved after an investigation by Nigeria’s Attorney-General, which it said cleared the company’s directors.

NAGHACON appealed to the governments of Ghana and Nigeria to intervene to ensure the safety of Ghanaians connected to the company while allowing the courts to determine the ownership dispute without interference.

The association said it hoped both countries would continue to uphold the strong diplomatic and economic ties they share by ensuring the matter is resolved peacefully and in accordance with the law.

No immediate response was available from the parties involved in the ownership dispute or Nigerian authorities regarding the allegations raised by NAGHACON.