President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association, Joseph Obeng, says his association no longer recognises the existence of the ECOWAS Protocol.

This he says is a result of the decision by the government of Nigeria to close its borders to foreign traders, which in essence, renders the ECOWAS Protocol null and void.

“The action of Nigeria has declared the ECOWAS Protocol null and void. We GUTA do not recognise the ECOWAS Protocol any longer and we can never accept any government to refer to the protocol when we are demanding our issues.”

According to Mr Obeng who was speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express programme on Tuesday, the move which the Nigerian government says is to clamp down on crime and smuggling is nothing more than one that is meant to benefit the country economically.

He said even though the move comes at the expense of foreign traders including members of GUTA, it shows the seriousness of the Nigerian government in seeking the welfare of its citizens.

“They intentionally put restrictive measures to the extent that it forced some of our manufacturing companies to go and open factories before they can get the access. What does that mean, it’s a country that is so serious on its citizens getting employment and all that.”

He reiterated GUTA’s position on the need for the government of Ghana to emulate the Nigerian government by closing its borders to give Ghanaian traders a competitive advantage.

However, the Deputy Minister of Trade, Carlos Ahenkrorah who was also on the show assured that Nigeria will soon open its borders to Ghanaian traders and goods.

He indicated that a Ghanaian delegation has been to Nigeria to negotiate a pact with the Nigerian government.