Nairobi: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana has submitted a petition to ECOWAS, urging the regional body to investigate allegations of governmental interference impacting the operations of Ghanaian businesses in Nigeria. This action was taken during the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, which took place in Abuja from December 10 to 12, 2025.

According to Ghana News Agency, Ghana raised specific concerns regarding the hurdles faced by Ghanaian-owned businesses in Nigeria, highlighting Jonah Capital PLC, a real estate enterprise owned by Sir Samuel Jonah, as a notable case. In support of its claims, Ghana presented a petition on behalf of the company, urging ECOWAS to take measures to prevent potential cross-border trade disputes.

The Council of Ministers acknowledged these concerns and has requested further details to better understand the situation. This petition comes in the wake of a prolonged ownership dispute over the River Park Estate in Abuja, which has escalated into
a significant corporate issue. Reports suggest that there are ongoing questions regarding the reassignment of shares involving Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited.

The matter is currently under scrutiny by Nigerias National Assembly and the judiciary, with issues being raised about adherence to due process and regulatory protocols. The absence of a public response from Nigerias Minister of Trade has raised apprehensions among investors and the international business community.

Observers have noted that Nigerias forthcoming actions will likely play a crucial role in determining whether the dispute will be resolved through ECOWASs institutional mechanisms or if it might develop into a broader economic and diplomatic issue between Ghana and Nigeria.