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Story by, Paul Mensah Nsor
Security Coordinator Maxwell Osei Addo Demands Government Intervention to Protect Ghana's International Reputation
ACCRA, Ghana - In a passionate press conference held today, APEX Ghana's Security Coordinator Maxwell Osei Addo issued an urgent call to action, demanding immediate government intervention to address what he described as escalating threats to Ghana's national security and international reputation posed by foreign criminal networks.
Speaking on behalf of APEX Ghana and concerned Ghanaian youth, Addo emphasized that the gathering was "not for politics, not for personal interest, but for a patriotic duty to speak boldly about threats that endanger the peace, stability and international image of Ghana."
Addo highlighted several disturbing incidents that have occurred in recent months, painting a picture of organized criminal activities that extend beyond Ghana's borders. On July 24th, City News reported that the Ghana Immigration Service arrested 15 Nigerian nationals engaged in cybercrime and money laundering schemes that specifically targeted Ghana's international allies, including Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
"This criminal act did not only harm our economy, but damaged Ghana's global reputation," Addo stated, emphasizing the far-reaching consequences of these activities.
The security coordinator also referenced a July 1st, 2025 BBC report detailing the rescue of 76 Ghanaians who had been trafficked to Nigeria by recruitment syndicates, demonstrating the vulnerability of Ghanaian citizens to cross-border criminal networks.
Perhaps most concerning was Addo's mention of a recent incident involving a German national who was defrauded in Ghana by foreign criminals using fake Ghanaian identities and passports. "This is not only embarrassing as a nation, but also creates doubts towards genuine Ghanaian citizens traveling abroad," he explained.
These incidents, according to Addo, are not isolated cases but rather "signs of a large, dangerous pattern that must be addressed immediately before it goes beyond control."
The APEX Ghana coordinator warned that these criminal activities are already having severe consequences for ordinary Ghanaians. He cited potential stricter restrictions against Ghanaians seeking education, business, or travel opportunities abroad as direct results of the country's damaged reputation.
"Already, these actions are damaging Ghana's global image, discouraging tourism and driving away potential investors," Addo said, highlighting the economic implications of the security concerns.
He stressed that Ghana's reputation as a peaceful country is under threat, stating, "Ghana is a peaceful country, and it is our collective responsibility to preserve that peace. We must not allow actions of certain nationals, particularly Nigerians, to jeopardize it."
APEX Ghana presented a detailed list of urgent demands to the Government of Ghana and relevant authorities:
1. Immediate repatriation of all undocumented foreigners.
2. Strengthening border controls and immigration systems.
3. Removal of foreign nationals from Ghana's retail trade markets in strict compliance with the law.
4. Immediate deportation of unauthorized traditional leaders, including the so-called "Igbo King" who has no legal or traditional mandate in Ghana.
5. Halting of unauthorized foreign festivals and celebrations that undermine Ghana's sovereignty.
6. Repatriation of all self-appointed foreign chiefs who have assumed roles within Ghana's traditional system without proper approval.
In his concluding remarks, Addo emphasized Ghana's values of peace, hospitality, and unity while drawing a clear line between welcome guests and those who abuse the country's hospitality.
"We welcome all who come to our land legally, peacefully, and respectfully, but we cannot allow criminality, illegality, and disrespect for our laws to destroy the very peace that defines us," he declared.
The security coordinator issued a rallying cry to all Ghanaians, calling on "the government, Parliament, the Security Services, and the good people of Ghana to rise together in defense of our nation."
Addo's message resonated with a sense of urgency about protecting Ghana's future prosperity and security. "Let us protect Ghana. Let us protect our borders. Let us safeguard our reputation, because as we always say, if Ghana is safe, Ghanaians will prosper. If Ghana falls, we all fall together."
The press conference concluded with Addo's blessing for the homeland: "Thank you, and may God bless our homeland, Ghana."
This development comes at a time when many African nations are grappling with cross-border security challenges and the need to balance hospitality with national security concerns. The demands made by APEX Ghana reflect growing concerns among citizens about the impact of foreign criminal activities on their country's international standing and economic prospects.
The government's response to these demands and the broader security concerns raised will likely be closely watched by both domestic and international observers as Ghana continues to position itself as a stable democracy and economic hub in West Africa.