The Igbo Community Association (ICA) FCT has strongly condemned the reported attempted coronation of an “Ezeigbo” in South Africa, describing the development as illegal and damaging to both Igbo cultural traditions and relations with host communities.
In a statement issued on 30th March, 2026 in Abuja, the association’s President General, Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, expressed concern over the tensions triggered by the incident, including what he described as near xenophobic reactions in parts of South Africa. While condemning the hostile response from protesters, the group faulted the organisers of the coronation for actions it said continue to bring embarrassment to Igbo people globally.
The association maintained that installing a traditional ruler outside Igbo land contravenes established customs and long standing directives of traditional authorities in Nigeria’s South-East. It referenced a prior communique by the South East Traditional Council, which outlawed the practice, a position also endorsed by Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
According to the statement, “It is wrong, illegal, and a direct violation of our customs to enthrone a king in another person’s domain,” warning that such actions could jeopardize the safety and reputation of millions of Igbos living abroad.
Raising alarm over potential diplomatic fallout, the ICA FCT recalled similar controversies in Ghana and other countries, where disputes over diaspora leadership structures have strained relations with host communities.
The group called on Nigerian authorities and international security agencies to take decisive action against individuals promoting what it termed “illegal coronations.” It urged that anyone parading as an “Ezeigbo” outside Nigeria should be arrested and prosecuted to deter further occurrences.
The association emphasized that preserving the dignity of Igbo heritage requires strict adherence to cultural norms, respect for host country laws, and alignment with directives from recognized traditional institutions in Nigeria.
The ICA FCT reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests and image of Igbo people worldwide, warning that unchecked actions by a few individuals in the diaspora could have far reaching consequences for the broader community.
One Comment