The Federal Government has criticised the practice of crowning “Eze Ndigbo” in foreign countries, describing it as embarrassing and capable of triggering diplomatic and communal tensions.
In a statement issued on Thursday, April 9, by the Special Assistant on Communication and New Media to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Magnus Eze, the government said it is working with the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the South East Council of Traditional Rulers to end the practice outside Igboland.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said during a meeting of the Imeobi body in Enugu that the trend has become a growing source of concern for the government and the Igbo community.
She explained that while diaspora Igbo groups are free to organise cultural events to promote their heritage, the creation of traditional leadership titles abroad has led to repeated misunderstandings and clashes with host communities.
According to her, such actions risk creating diplomatic friction and misrepresenting Nigeria’s cultural institutions. She said cultural expression should not lead to tensions or appear to challenge the authority of host nations.
“This situation has become a big embarrassment to government, Ndigbo, Nigerians and other foreigners in those countries where they have Eze Ndigbo,” she said.
The controversy follows recent unrest in South Africa’s Eastern Cape linked to the installation of an Igbo leader as “Eze Ndigbo” in East London, which reportedly led to protests and clashes with security agencies after authorities declared the coronation illegal.
The ministry said it is engaging diplomatic channels to manage the fallout, while Nigeria’s mission in South Africa has distanced itself from the event, describing it as a cultural gathering not recognised as a traditional institution.
A similar incident in Ghana in 2025 was also referenced, which previously strained relations before diplomatic intervention helped calm tensions and protect Nigerian citizens and businesses.
Meanwhile, the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has now aligned with South-East traditional rulers to abolish the “Eze Ndigbo” title in the diaspora.
President-General of Ohanaeze, Senator Azuta Mbata, said the organisation will no longer recognise such titles outside Igboland and warned that sanctions would be enforced through community structures against violators.