Ihenetu
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The installation of Chukwudi Ihenetu, as ‘Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana’ (King of the Igbo People in Ghana) has triggered set off a gale of protests and uproar in parts of Ghana.
Ihenetu’s massive palace in Accra surfaced online, showing royal emblems and traditional architecture.
This resulted in many youth groups and cultural advocates kicking against the reign of a foreign monarch in Ghana, saying it undermines the country’s sovereignty and traditional institutions.
The protesters were seen in Accra and parts of the Eastern Region wielding placards with inscriptions, such as ‘No Foreign Thrones in Ghana’ and ‘Honour Our Heritage’.
A footage of Captain Smart, a Ghanaian broadcaster, seen kneeling before Ihenetu during a public ceremony sparked heated debate on social media and public concern.
Critics in Ghana argue that the creation of the title of ‘Eze Ndi Igbo’, which is commonly used within Igbo communities abroad as a symbolic cultural institution, could set a precedent for parallel leadership structures in Ghana.
There are also speculations that Ihenetu has plans to establish a 50-acre ‘Igbo kingdom’ in Old Ningo, further fuelling suspicion among some Ghanaians.
Critics have sought the intervention of the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, seeking clarification if the laws of Ghana allow foreigners to hold royal titles on Ghanaian soil.
However, Ihenetu has defended his position, as ceremonial and lacked political authority.
In a recent interview, Ihenetu had explained that it was purely cultural and meant to bring the Igbo people in Ghana together.
He said: “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.”
