The leader of the Igbo community in Ghana, Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, has abolished the use of the title “King of the Igbos in Ghana”.
Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu cited efforts to promote unity, peace, and cultural respect as part of the reason behind the decision, as they seek to promote unity, peace, and cultural respect among both Nigerians and Ghanaians.
According to Chukwudi Jude, the directive also follows the decision of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria discouraging the use of the title outside Igbo land.
Reports suggest the move follows controversy over the installation of a sub-chief in Dome-Kwabenya.
Speaking during a press conference, Leader of Igbo community stated, “The Southeast Traditional Ruler Council of Nigeria has formally abolished the use of the title ‘King of Igbos’ by any person residing outside Igbo land.
“In its place, the council has directed that leaders of Igbo communities in the diaspora be addressed as ‘Igbo leaders’ in the diaspora. In full compliance with these directives, I, Dr Ambassador Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, hereby commit to their observance and have complied with them with immediate effect,” he said.
He added, “This reflects both respect for the authority of the council and the traditional institutions in Ghana, as well as my dedication to fostering unity, peace, and cultural dignity among the Igbo people in Ghana and their host communities”.
He further addressed past controversies, while offering an apology for any tensions or misunderstandings that may have arisen.
“I wish to most sincerely apologise for any tension, concerns, misunderstandings, or inconveniences that the incident of 2025 may have caused to both Ghanaians and Nigerians. Peace and unity are too important to be threatened by controversy or misunderstanding,” he noted.
Chukwudi Jude also extended a specific apology to the Ga State, saying, “To the Ga State, I extend my deepest respect and sincere apology regarding the unfortunate remarks made by my public relations officer during that period. The words used did not reflect my personal values”.
Some Ghanaians reacting to the news stated, “These same people cause problems in South Africa, and they are attacking people anyhow ? Just exit it; we don’t need any Igbo leaders. We, Ghanaians, already have peace and we unity”.
One X user added, “We have tolerated this stupidity for far too long. Our mainstream media is culpable. They keep propping foreigners who are nobodies in their own country. We as Ghanaians should have some pride”.
A netizen added, “That’s the way to go; a king has jurisdiction over a kingdom, a territory. You can be a king in your own country, not outside of it! There’s no part of Ghana that belongs to Igbos and vice versa, but you can be a leader of a sect”.
“What is this guy still here doing ?! Why is he still here and granting interviews and media houses platforming him… arrant nonsense”, a netizen added.
Watch the video below:
The leader of the Igbo community in Ghana, Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, has abolished the use of the title “King of the Igbos in Ghana,” citing efforts to promote unity, peace, and cultural respect.
— CITI FM 97.3 (@Citi973) June 17, 2026
He also noted a directive from the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria… pic.twitter.com/I9r50oMqLw
