The Federal Government has strongly criticised the coronation and activities of self-styled “Eze Ndigbo” (Igbo kings) in foreign countries, describing the trend as an embarrassment to Nigeria and the Igbo people.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known in a statement issued during the Imeobi meeting of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide held in Enugu.
According to the minister, while Igbo communities in the diaspora are encouraged to promote their culture, the practice of installing traditional rulers abroad has created serious tensions. She noted that such actions have led to conflicts not only within Igbo communities but also between Nigerians and their host countries.
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Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that cultural expression must be done responsibly and without violating the customs or authority of host nations. She described the development as damaging to Nigeria’s image internationally.
She cited a recent incident in Eastern Cape, where the coronation of Solomon Eziko as “Eze Ndigbo na East London” sparked violent protests. The event, held in East London, was widely condemned by local authorities and residents, who viewed it as an infringement on traditional leadership structures.
The protests, which began days after the coronation, escalated into violence, including the destruction of vehicles and attacks on foreign-owned businesses. South African authorities declared the installation illegal, while Nigeria’s High Commission distanced itself from the event, describing it as a misinterpreted cultural ceremony.
The minister also recalled a similar crisis in Ghana in 2025, which required diplomatic intervention to ease tensions after locals issued threats against Nigerians.
She welcomed the decision by Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the South East Council of Traditional Rulers to abolish the title of Eze Ndigbo outside Igboland. The organisation’s President-General, Azuta Mbata, reaffirmed that any such title conferred abroad is invalid and not recognised by Igbo authorities.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged the group to enforce sanctions against violators, adding that Nigeria’s foreign missions would help disseminate the directive globally.
