The traditional leader of the Igbo community in Ghana, Eze Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, has broken his silence on the swirling controversy about alleged plans to build an “Igbo Kingdom” in Ghana, assuring people around the world—particularly Nigerians—that there is no cause for alarm and that Ghanaians and Nigerians remain safe and united in the country.
Speaking in a recent address, Eze Ihenetu firmly stated, “Ghana is one of the safest countries in the world. The government and security agencies are in full control, and all residents, including Nigerians, are safe. The panic being stirred online is completely unfounded.”
The controversy erupted after a decade-old interview resurfaced online, allegedly suggesting plans to establish an “Igbo kingdom” in Ningo, Ghana. In his address, Eze Ihenetu clarified that the video referred only to a “village”—a cultural center aimed at preserving Igbo traditions—not a political kingdom or threat to Ghanaian sovereignty.
“We cannot build a kingdom on top of another kingdom. That is impossible,” he said. “What I spoke of years ago was a cultural village—not a kingdom. The interpretation has been twisted by people trying to make money from the internet at the expense of peace and unity.”
He expressed deep concern about misinformation and AI-generated content spreading across social media, which he said was being used by “mischievous individuals” to incite division and fear. According to him, bloggers seeking views and revenue are distorting facts and fueling unnecessary panic.
“People are calling from around the world, afraid that we’re in danger. Let me be clear: there is no unrest here, no expulsion of Nigerians, and certainly no threat to our businesses or families,” he stated. “Even I, the so-called ‘King’ in question, still live in my private home with my Ghanaian wife and children.”
He condemned social media content that falsely claimed Nigerians were being attacked or driven out of Ghana. “These are AI-edited videos, and they are doing serious damage to the image of this great nation.”
Eze Ihenetu went on to apologize to the government of Ghana, former President John Dramani Mahama, and all traditional leaders for any discomfort the viral misinformation may have caused.
“We remain loyal and submissive to the laws and authority of Ghana,” he said. “We are not here to challenge or change the culture, tradition, or leadership of Ghana—we are simply here as peaceful, law-abiding residents who want to preserve our heritage within our community.”
The king also appealed to Ghanaian youth, urging them not to allow themselves to be manipulated by internet provocateurs seeking to create division between the two brotherly nations. “Those who are inciting you to violence are the same ones taking videos of the damage for their social media platforms to earn money,” he warned.
In closing, he called for unity and mutual respect between Ghanaians and Nigerians.
“We have no plan to create any ‘kingdom’ here. We are part of Ghana’s development. We raise families here, we run businesses here, and we remain committed to peace”.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu