The installation of a Nigerian traditional leader, Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu, as ‘Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana’ (King of the Igbo People in Ghana) has triggered widespread protests and public outcry across parts of Ghana.
The development, which has drawn criticism from youth groups
and cultural advocates, is being opposed by protesters who say the presence of
a foreign monarch undermines Ghana’s sovereignty and traditional chieftaincy
institutions.
Protesters in Accra and parts of the Eastern Region were
seen carrying placards with messages such as ‘No Foreign Thrones in Ghana’ and
‘Honour Our Heritage’.
Their concerns were amplified after photos of Eze Ihenetu’s
elaborate palace in Accra surfaced online, featuring regal emblems and
traditional architecture.
The title of ‘Eze Ndi Igbo’ is
commonly used within Igbo communities abroad as a symbolic cultural
institution.
However, critics in Ghana argue that the creation of such
thrones by foreigners could set a precedent for parallel leadership structures
within the country.
There have also been unconfirmed reports that the Igbo
leader is planning to establish a 50-acre ‘Igbo kingdom’ in Old Ningo, further
fuelling suspicion among some Ghanaians.
Alleged land acquisitions by the Igbo community have added
to these concerns, although no official evidence has been provided.
Public reactions intensified following the circulation of a
video showing Ghanaian broadcaster Captain Smart kneeling before Eze Ihenetu
during a public ceremony. The footage, which has gone viral, has sparked heated
debate on social media.
Some citizens are calling on the Ministry of Chieftaincy and
Religious Affairs to intervene and clarify whether Ghanaian laws permit
foreigners to hold royal titles on Ghanaian soil.
In response to the controversy, Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu has
defended his position, stating that the role is ceremonial and meant solely to
unify the Igbo community in Ghana.
“The throne of the Diasporan Igbo in Ghana is meant to
protect, defend and project the Igbo people and Nigerians as a whole. We have
no political authority or territorial ambitions in Ghana. This is purely
cultural,” he said in a recent interview.
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