A wave of protests has swept across Ghana following the installation of Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu as "Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana" (King of the Igbo People in Ghana). The development has sparked widespread outrage, with many Ghanaians expressing concerns that the presence of a foreign monarch undermines the country's sovereignty and traditional chieftaincy institutions.¹
The Controversy
The controversy began when Eze Ihenetu, a Nigerian traditional leader, was crowned "Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana" in a grand ceremony. Protesters argue that this installation is an affront to Ghana's cultural heritage and national identity. They claim that allowing a foreign king to operate on Ghanaian soil sets a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to other foreign communities establishing parallel royal institutions.²
Protests and Public Outcry
Ghanaians have taken to the streets, carrying placards with messages such as "No Foreign Thrones in Ghana" and "Honour Our Heritage". The protests have gained momentum, with many citizens calling for the government to intervene and clarify whether Ghanaian law permits foreigners to hold royal titles within the country.
Government Response
The Ningo Traditional Council has dismissed claims that Eze Ihenetu has established a new kingdom within the Old Ningo area. In a letter addressed to the Minister for the Interior, the Council emphasized that the Ningo Paramountcy remains solely under the leadership of HRM Nene Osroagbo Djangmah XII and does not intend to have another ruler domiciled on their land. President John Mahama is under pressure to comment on the controversy, with many citizens criticizing the intention of the "Igbo King" and noting that the presence of a foreign monarch undermines Ghana's sovereignty.³
Alleged Land Acquisition
The controversy has deepened with allegations that Eze Ihenetu plans to establish a 50-acre Igbo kingdom in Old Ningo. Although the Igbo community has denied acquiring land, the Ningo Traditional Council has issued an urgent letter declaring that no land has been sold and no clan consent has been given. The Council has also advised the Interior Minister to investigate Ihenetu and instructed the District Assembly not to issue any building permits.⁴
Call for Action
Many Ghanaians are calling on the government to take immediate action to address the situation. A "Nigeria Must Go Protest" is scheduled for July 19, with protesters demanding that the government clarify its stance on the Igbo King's installation. The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has also directed all Paramount and Divisional Chiefs installed by Ihenetu to abandon their claims and cease performing any traditional activities under his authority.
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