Chaos is escalating across parts of Ghana as protests intensify over the controversial installation of a Nigerian national, Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu, as the Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana — a symbolic traditional leader representing the Igbo community in the country.
In the capital city, Accra, and parts of the Eastern Region, hundreds of Ghanaians have continued to take to the streets this July, voicing outrage under banners such as “No Foreign Thrones in Ghana” and “Honour Our Heritage.”
Demonstrators insist the recognition of a foreign king undermines Ghana’s sacred chieftaincy traditions and national identity.
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The protests, which have continued for several weeks, gained momentum after images of Eze Ihenetu’s installation ceremony resurfaced, showing a lavish palace setup in Accra.
Outrage grew after a viral video showed popular Ghanaian media personality Captain Smart kneeling before the Igbo monarch — a moment many saw as a symbolic threat to the sovereignty of Ghanaian traditional rulers.
Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu, who has held the title for several years, has since addressed the backlash, clarifying that his role is entirely cultural, not political.
“We have no political authority or territorial claim. This is purely cultural and intended to unify the Igbo community in Ghana,” he said.
Still, the protestors continue to express concern. The situation escalated after unverified reports claimed that 50 acres of land in Old Ningo may be allocated for the development of an “Igbo Kingdom” in Ghana. While the Ghanaian government has yet to confirm or deny the reports, the speculation has deepened public unrest.
“We’re not against Nigerians or the Igbo people,” a protester said. “But Ghanaian land and traditions must not be handed to foreign monarchs. We have our own chiefs. This must stop.”
As public outrage continues, civic groups and traditional councils are calling on the Ghanaian government to issue a definitive statement to calm tensions and protect the country’s indigenous governance systems.