A prominent Igbo leader in Ghana, known as the Eze Ndígbo, recently addressed some common misconceptions about his role and the Igbo community during a visit from social media personality Verydarkman (VDM). The leader, whose title literally means "leader of the Igbo people," clarified several key points.
The Role of Eze Ndígbo
He explained that the title of Eze Ndígbo is not the same as a king in Ghana. Instead, it’s a cultural leadership position designed to help Igbo people living in the country stay connected to their heritage and unite their community. He noted that the Ghanaian government and local people understand and respect this, which is why the community lives in peace. This role has existed in Ghana for over 30 years, and he is not the first to hold it. He believes the rumors circulating about him began after he won the election for the position in 2013 against some rivals. He also highlighted that other communities, such as the Yoruba and Chinese, have their own cultural leaders in Ghana, so the Igbo having an Eze Ndígbo is not unusual.
The "Igbo Village" Project
The Eze Ndígbo addressed a viral video of what was called an “Igbo village.” He clarified that the project, which was planned in 2013, was meant to be a modern cultural center with schools, shops, and cultural hubs—similar to a Chinatown. However, it never came to be because of a land dispute. He stressed that the idea was to create a source of pride for the community, not to establish a separate kingdom within Ghana.
His Relationship with Nigerian Monarchs
He also clarified his relationship with traditional Nigerian rulers. He explained that whenever Nigerian monarchs, like the Ooni of Ife, visit Ghana, he steps down and treats them with the respect owed to a king. He emphasized that he sees himself as their subject and never portrays himself as a king when he travels back to Nigeria.
Igbo Shops in Ghana
On the issue of Igbo traders whose shops were locked, he explained that it was due to Ghana's trade laws that restrict foreigners from retail trading. While some Igbo traders resorted to retail because buyers often wouldn't pay after getting supplies, he noted that the law seems to be enforced more strictly on Igbos compared to other foreigners. He assured the public that he is in talks with Ghanaian authorities to resolve the issue and that things are improving.
His Home
Finally, he pointed out that his home, which some people call a "palace," is a personal residence he built from his success as a businessman long before he was chosen as Eze Ndígbo. He stated that his primary goal is to preserve Igbo culture, unite his people, and maintain strong, peaceful relations with the people of Ghana.