Eze Ndigbo in Ghana Breaks Silence Amid ‘Nigerians Must Leave’ Protests
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Eze Ndigbo in Ghana, Chief Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, has responded to growing tensions following protests by some Ghanaians demanding that Nigerians, particularly the Igbo community, leave the country. The traditional leader spoke during an exclusive, unfiltered interview conducted by social commentator VeryDarkMan, who visited him to address the swirling controversies surrounding his position.

Background to the Controversy

The protests, tagged “Nigerians Must Leave”, erupted after Eze Ihenetu’s position as Eze Ndigbo in Ghana gained renewed attention on social media, with some Ghanaian citizens expressing discontent over the existence of a Nigerian traditional ruler in their country.

Some critics argued that allowing a foreign national to hold a chieftaincy title could undermine Ghanaian customs and sovereignty, while others accused Nigerian residents of engaging in activities detrimental to local communities. Placards and online campaigns calling for the expulsion of Nigerians in Ghana intensified the debate, sparking diplomatic and cultural discussions on both sides.

Eze Ihenetu Sets the Record Straight

In the interview, Eze Ihenetu clarified the role of his position, emphasising that the title is purely cultural and ceremonial, intended to provide leadership and unity among the Igbo people living in Ghana.

“I am not here to interfere in Ghanaian politics or chieftaincy matters. My role is to help organise the Igbo community, promote cultural values, and maintain peaceful coexistence,” he said.

Addressing claims that he once sought land to establish an ‘Igbo Kingdom’ in Ghana, Eze Ihenetu explained that the proposal was never aimed at creating a sovereign entity but was rather for a cultural centre that would celebrate Nigerian heritage. He described allegations of trying to set up a separate state as “grossly misunderstood and politically manipulated.”

Call for Peace and Understanding

Eze Ihenetu urged Ghanaians to separate genuine concerns from stereotypes, stressing that many Nigerians have lived and worked peacefully in Ghana for decades, contributing to trade, education, and the economy.

He called on both Ghanaian authorities and Nigerian expatriates to engage in constructive dialogue to address misunderstandings rather than resort to confrontational protests.

“We are Africans first before being Nigerians or Ghanaians. What we need is mutual respect, peace, and understanding. The Igbo community will continue to abide by Ghanaian laws and customs,” he assured.

Diplomatic and Cultural Dimensions

The controversy has drawn attention from civil society groups, diaspora organisations, and policy analysts who believe the matter requires legal and diplomatic clarity. Questions have emerged over whether foreign nationals should hold ceremonial titles in host countries and under what circumstances.

Meanwhile, Nigerian community leaders in Ghana have appealed for calm, urging citizens to maintain lawful conduct while calling on Ghanaian authorities to address xenophobic sentiments before they escalate.

The Road Ahead

The Eze Ndigbo interview has provided insights into the complexities surrounding cultural leadership, migration, and national identity in West Africa. Observers say the issue now rests on how well both nations can balance cultural expression with national sovereignty and public sentiment.

As the debate continues, Eze Ihenetu reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful coexistence, unity among Nigerians in Ghana, and respect for Ghanaian laws and traditions.

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