Over 1,500 Ivorians Flee to Ghana Amid Election Tensions in Côte d’Ivoire

Over 1,500 Ivorian nationals have reportedly crossed into Ghana through the Elubo border post in the Western Region, citing fears of escalating political violence ahead of Côte d’Ivoire’s presidential election scheduled for 25 October 2025. The influx has prompted Ghanaian authorities to heighten security measures along the border to prevent potential threats.

According to reports from Ghana’s Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, the number of arrivals has surged as the election nears, with some entering as regular travellers rather than officially declaring refugee status. The minister, during a visit to the Elubo border, warned that the situation remains volatile and urged security personnel to remain vigilant.

Deputy Commissioner of Immigration at the Elubo Command, DCI Joshua Krakue, noted the challenges of distinguishing between ordinary cross-border movement and individuals seeking asylum. “People are understandably leaving the country to find safe havens, and many may return after the elections if all is calm. However, they don’t present themselves as asylum-seekers at the border,” he said.

The reported arrivals from Côte d’Ivoire reflect mounting concerns over election-related unrest in the neighbouring country, where President Alassane Ouattara’s bid for a fourth term and the exclusion of prominent opposition figures have triggered protests and violence in regions such as Mé.

Ghana’s proximity to Côte d’Ivoire and the porous nature of the land border at Elubo make the country a logical refuge for those fleeing unrest. The town of Elubo sits on Ghana’s western frontier and is one of the primary entry points for travellers and traders between the two nations.

While many of the arrivals appear to be seeking temporary safety, Ghana’s security agencies remain concerned about the risk of criminal elements using the influx as cover. Minister Nelson emphasized that although humanitarian assistance may be needed, the priority remains national security. “Put yourself in readiness to receive them, but keep your eyes open to ensure no criminals slip through the system to pose security threats,” he cautioned.

The Ghana Immigration Service and other security agencies have responded by stepping up checks on identities, luggage, and purpose of travel at the Elubo post. Secondary screening and increased patrols in border-adjacent zones have been initiated, according to official sources.

Humanitarian groups in the Western Region report that some of the Ivorian arrivals have not carried the usual signs of long-term displacement such as large luggage or family units. This suggests that the movement may be largely precautionary rather than driven by mass refugee outflows. DCI Krakue observed that many cross the border without presenting as asylum-seekers and may return after the elections.

The influx is putting pressure on local services in the border areas, particularly healthcare, accommodation and sanitation facilities. Local community leaders in Elubo and neighbouring towns have appealed for early assessment of the situation to forestall humanitarian strain.

Ghana’s response to the arrivals will also be watched by international bodies given the potential regional ripple effects. Côte d’Ivoire is one of Ghana’s key neighbours, and instability there could have economic, social and security implications, especially in trade and refugee dynamics. Analysts suggest that Ghana is deploying a balanced approach: allowing legitimate humanitarian access, while enforcing stricter border controls.

Western Region is traditionally a calm part of Ghana, but the new pressure highlights how interconnected political events in one country can immediately impact another. Security experts warn that if similar movements spill into other border regions, the strain on Ghana’s border management and refugee-hosting systems could increase.

For the Ivorian nationals currently in Ghana, short-term shelter and basic support have been the most pressing needs. Ghanaian civil society organisations are mobilising to provide assistance, but they urge that any intervention must be coordinated to ensure that the influx remains manageable without compromising local services.

In sum, the arrival of over 1,500 Ivorians into Ghana ahead of the Côte d’Ivoire elections underscores the cross-border implications of electoral instability. Ghana’s heightened vigilance and border monitoring reflect an effort to safeguard national security while remaining ready to meet humanitarian needs. At a time when West African politics are deeply interconnected, the movement of people across borders remains both an indicator and consequence of regional stress.

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