Nigerian Traders want immunity in prosecution of illegal foreign retailers

Nigerian Traders in Ghana are calling for exemption in government's plan to prosecute foreigners illegally engaged in retail business which is a preserve for Ghanaians.

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah has hinted of a clamp-down on such foreigners operating in the retail markets from next month.  

This was after an assurance by the Chief Justice, Georgina Wood to set up special courts for the prosecution.

But the All Nigerian Community in Ghana, a body that represents Nigerian traders, is impressing upon government, the need for a dialogue first to find a lasting solution to the issue.

Its President, Moses Owharo tells Joy Business, this is important in deepening the trade and investment ties between the two ECOWAS countries.

"We are not saying the government of Ghana should not have its own laws. But again you want to follow the ECOWAS protocol. If you look back to history, Nigeria and Ghana have come a long way. It's time we begin to see ourselves as brothers and sisters so that there is an integration. I think that we can harmonise certain policies that will favour both countries", Mr. Owharo said.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Union of Traders Association has hailed the development as a giant step in the right direction.

The President, George Ofori tells Joy Business it could not have come at any better time.                  

"Those who are preparing to come in will now be very cautious about their coming and those who are already in will also be cautious about the way they operate."

Mr. Ofori added a task force will be going out to get the names of foreigners to the Trade Ministry and other appropriate quarters for prosecution to start.