Enugu, Nigeria — The Federal Government has condemned the continued coronation of “Eze Ndigbo” (Igbo kings) in foreign countries, describing the practice as embarrassing and a trigger for diplomatic and security tensions.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, voiced the government’s position on Thursday at the Imeobi meeting of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in Enugu, warning that such activities have strained relations between Nigerians and host communities abroad.
Her remarks came as the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze, in collaboration with the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, formally abolished the recognition of Eze Ndigbo titles outside Igboland.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the trend has repeatedly caused friction within diaspora Igbo communities and with host nations, stressing that cultural expression must not undermine local laws or traditional institutions.
The minister cited a recent crisis in Eastern Cape, South Africa, where the coronation of an Igbo leader as “Eze Ndigbo” in East London sparked violent protests. The unrest led to the destruction of at least 13 vehicles, looting of foreign-owned businesses, and clashes that required police intervention.
South African authorities, including traditional leaders and government agencies, declared the installation illegal, describing it as a violation of constitutional and customary structures. Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Pretoria distanced itself from the event, clarifying it was a misinterpreted cultural ceremony rather than a legitimate traditional rulership.
The minister disclosed that Nigeria is engaging diplomatically to manage the fallout, urging Nigerians abroad to exercise restraint and respect host communities.
She also recalled a similar incident in Accra, Ghana, in 2025, which led to tensions and threats against Nigerians before intervention by John Mahama helped restore calm.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu warned that the safety of Nigerians and their businesses abroad could be jeopardized by such controversies if not addressed decisively.
In a firm resolution, Ohanaeze President-General, Azuta Mbata, declared the Eze Ndigbo title in the diaspora “alien and proscribed,” stating that anyone assuming such titles does so without the backing of the Igbo people.
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He added that sanctions would be determined in consultation with traditional rulers in Igboland, with enforcement extending to offenders’ home communities.
The Federal Government pledged to circulate the resolution through its embassies and high commissions worldwide, signaling a coordinated effort to curb the practice and prevent further diplomatic incidents.
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