By Franci Kobena Tandoh
The Palace of Eze Ndigbo in Ghana has said the title “Eze” conferred on their leader, Dr. Chukwudi Ihenetu, is not a self-proclaimed one in the host country, according to a statement released here on Wednesday.
The statement, signed by Ronney Gogo, Head of Communication for the Eze Igbo Palace in Ghana, explained that “Eze” is an Igbo word meaning “king” or “monarch,” which is a traditional title within the Igbo cultural system.
The statement comes on the back of the manner in which the title “Eze” and the role of the Igbo King in Ghana, Dr. Chukwudi Ihenetu, have become a subject of discussion here in recent times.
According to the statement, Dr. Chukwudi Ihenetu was nominated and duly coronated by recognized kingmakers from Nigeria.
“The title, “Eze” is a traditional designation within the Igbo cultural system, signifying a leader. It is crucial to understand that Dr. Chukwudi Ihenetu did not self-proclaim this title in Ghana. Instead, he was nominated and duly coronated by recognized kingmakers in Nigeria, who traveled to Ghana specifically for his installation as the leader of the Igbo community here,” read the statement.
“It is important to note that the kingmakers of Nigeria crowned Dr. Chukwudi Ihenetu as Eze in consultation with Igbo leaders in Ghana, thereby solidifying his legitimacy,” the statement clarified.
The Palace of Eze Ndigbo said they are fully aware of and remain committed to adhering to the laws of Ghana, including the country’s Chieftaincy Act, and hence have no intention to refer to the Igbo leader here as king in the Ghanaian context.
“At no point will Dr. Ihenetu refer to himself as “King” within the Ghanaian context, in recognition of and deep respect for Ghana’s established chieftaincy institution. We want to emphatically state that Dr. Ihenetu, and by extension, the entire Igbo community in Ghana, has no intention of undermining the revered traditional authority in Ghana,” it further stated.
The statement urged individuals to remain calm and be measured in their unwavering commitment to abiding by the laws of Ghana. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
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