Eze Ndígbo In Ghana Sets The Record Straight: “I’m Not A King, I’m A Cultural Leader”

In a recent visit to the palace of the Eze Ndígbo in Ghana, popular online personality Verydarkman (VDM) had an in-depth conversation with the leader, clarifying several misconceptions about his role and the Igbo community in Ghana.

The Role of Eze Ndígbo

The Eze Ndígbo explained that his title does not translate to “king” in Ghana but rather a cultural leadership position designed to unite Igbos in the diaspora and preserve their traditions. “Our Ghanaian hosts understand this perfectly, which is why we coexist peacefully,” he emphasized. He also pointed out that having an Eze Ndígbo is not unique, citing the Yoruba community’s Oba and other cultural leaders among Moroccans and Chinese in Ghana.¹

The Controversy Over “Igbo Village”

Addressing the viral video about an “Igbo village,” the Eze Ndígbo clarified that the project, initiated in 2013, never materialized due to land ownership disputes. The intention was to create a cultural hub with schools, shopping malls, and cultural centers, similar to Chinatown in Ghana. “If successful, it would have been a place of pride, not a kingdom within another country,” he explained.²

Relationship with Nigerian Monarchs

The Eze Ndígbo also shed light on his relationship with Nigerian monarchs, stating that when they visit, he steps down from his seat, allowing them to take over. “I become their subject because I’m not a king, and I don’t parade myself as one when I’m in Nigeria,” he said.

Locked Igbo Shops in Ghana

Regarding the issue of locked Igbo shops, the Eze Ndígbo attributed it to Ghana’s trade laws prohibiting foreigners from retail trading. He acknowledged that while other foreigners also engage in retail, the law seems to affect Igbos disproportionately. However, he expressed confidence that things are improving after meeting with authorities.

Personal Home, Not Palace

The Eze Ndígbo also dispelled the notion that his residence is a palace, stating it’s his personal home built before he assumed his current role. “I built it because God blessed me as a businessman. Later, I was chosen as Eze Ndígbo, but that doesn’t make me a king,” he clarified.

Mission and Objective

Ultimately, the Eze Ndígbo stressed that his mission is to preserve Igbo culture, unite his people, and maintain good relations with their Ghanaian hosts. His leadership is focused on promoting cultural understanding and cooperation between the Igbo community and Ghanaian society.