By Ameyaw Debrah
The South-East Council of Traditional Rulers in Nigeria has officially abolished the use of the title “Eze Ndigbo” by Igbo leaders living outside their homeland—a decision that comes shortly after tensions flared in Ghana over a viral video involving a Nigerian community leader.
In the widely circulated video, the individual, based in Ghana, referred to himself as “Eze Ndi Igbo of Ghana” and mentioned plans to establish an Igbo Kingdom.
The footage, although recorded in 2013, resurfaced recently and caused public concern, with many questioning the implications of such a title and vision within a sovereign host nation.
Responding to the uproar, the council of traditional rulers issued a statement signed by respected monarchs including Eze E.C. Okeke and Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe.
They emphasized that the “Eze” title carries sacred ancestral meaning and is meant only for enthroned rulers within specific Igbo territories.
They introduced “Onyendu Ndigbo” as a culturally appropriate alternative for diaspora leadership and warned that failure to comply would be viewed as a breach of cultural protocol.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa met with the man in the video and revealed that the interview was outdated and no longer reflects his intentions.
The individual reportedly apologized to Ghanaian authorities and confirmed there are no plans to develop an Igbo Kingdom.
Ablakwa urged Ghanaians to avoid xenophobic rhetoric and highlighted the importance of preserving Ghana’s Pan-African hospitality and strong bilateral relations with Nigeria.
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
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