A total of 427 Ivorians have formally sought asylum in Ghana, according to the Executive Secretary of the Ghana Refugee Board, Nana Asare Bediako.
He was speaking on the sidelines of a visit with officials from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to the Elubo border and refugee camps in the Nzema area ahead of the Ivorian presidential election this Saturday October 25,2025.
The Executive Secretary’s visit was prompted by earlier TV3 news reports of Ivorians seeking asylum in Ghana ahead of their country’s elections.
The team began the assessment at the Elubo border and the Jaway Wharf, both in the Jomoro Municipality. The delegation observed that the situation at the border was calm.
Nana Asare Bediako, the Executive Secretary of the Ghana Refugee Board, reported that as of the latest update, 427 individuals have formally registered with the intention of seeking asylum.
“Previous reports that over 1,500 Ivorians are seeking asylum in Ghana are inaccurate. The confirmed number, as of now, is 427 individuals registered at the Ampain refugee camp.
This figure is based on our direct, on-the-ground registration process, where we interview and record all asylum seekers upon their arrival.” Nana Asare Bediako sad.
Nana Asare Bediako refuted allegations that Côte d’Ivoire had closed its border. He added, however, that Ghana is prepared to evacuate its citizens from Côte d’Ivoire and receive Ivorian nationals if necessary.
“Ghana has contingency plans in place to address any potential emergencies. We are also prepared to ensure the safety of the approximately 120,000 Ghanaians in Côte d’Ivoire. “Following consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and the Interior, we are ready to execute an evacuation if instability arises.
We sincerely hope for a peaceful and transparent election in Côte d’Ivoire, which will preserve the stability that both our nations currently enjoy.” He added.
The team later proceeded to the Ampain refugee camp in the Ellembelle District, where they met with the refugees.
