Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, a social-cultural political organisation of the Igbo nation, has announced a ban on the coronation of “Eze Ndi Igbo” (Igbo kings) in foreign countries, citing rising tensions and violent incidents linked to the practice.
The development was disclosed by Bianca Ojukwu, minister of state for foreign affairs, in a post on X, following deliberations at the group’s apex decision-making body, Imeobi Ohaneze.
Ojukwu said the decision was reached after concerns over the growing trend of installing traditional rulers in diaspora communities, which she noted has triggered diplomatic issues and conflicts with host countries.
She referenced a recent incident in Ghana, where tensions arose over such a coronation and required high-level diplomatic intervention to resolve.
According to her, a similar controversy recently occurred in Eastern Cape, South Africa, following the coronation of an “Eze Ndi Igbo na East London”, which sparked outrage among local residents.
The situation reportedly escalated into violent protests, including burning, looting, and destruction of at least 13 vehicles, as demonstrators opposed what they perceived as a challenge to local traditional authority structures.
Ojukwu said while Igbo communities in the diaspora have the right to promote their cultural heritage, such actions must be sensitive to the traditions and realities of host societies.
She added that assuming traditional rulership titles abroad is often viewed as provocative, especially when accompanied by displays of wealth that may appear insensitive in economically challenged environments.
As an alternative, she said leaders of Igbo communities abroad should adopt the title “Onyendu,” meaning leader, rather than presenting themselves as kings in foreign lands.
The minister commended Ohaneze for taking a firm position on the issue, including the introduction of a ban and the possibility of sanctions against violators.
She added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would activate diplomatic channels to communicate the directive through Nigerian missions abroad and engage host governments to manage the situation.
