Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has addressed the controversy surrounding a viral video that claimed a Nigerian traditional leader, Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, intended to establish an “Igbo Kingdom” in Ghana. In a statement, Ablakwa revealed that he invited Ihenetu for a meeting to clarify the matter.
During the meeting, Ihenetu explained that the video was an old 2013 interview, which he deeply regrets. He assured that he has abandoned the idea of establishing an Igbo kingdom in Ghana and has not purchased any land for that purpose. Ihenetu also conveyed profuse apologies to the President, Government, Chiefs, and People of Ghana for the unease caused by his comments.
Ablakwa emphasized Ghana’s commitment to its friendly foreign policy, welcoming all Africans and people of African descent to the country. However, he stressed the importance of respecting Ghana’s laws, traditions, and unity. “We expect all our fellow Africans and guests to adhere to our peaceful and law-abiding traditions and desist from conduct or pronouncements considered unlawful, divisive, and incendiary,” he stated.
The government urged calm and restraint, recalling the strong bond of friendship and brotherhood between Ghana and Nigeria. Ablakwa called for careful commentary to prevent the matter from degenerating into xenophobic consequences, promoting African solidarity and friendly relations between the two nations.