Ghana’s Foreign Minister Debunks “Igbo Kingdom in Ghana” Claim, Calls for Pan-African Solidarity

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sam Ablakwa has officially debunked viral claims that an “Igbo Kingdom” is being established in Ghana, clarifying that the individual at the centre of the controversy, Mr Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, has long since abandoned any such intentions and has issued an unreserved apology to the people and leadership of Ghana.

The Foreign Minister, in a statement on Wednesday, addressed growing public concern following the circulation of a viral video in which Mr Ihenetu, a Nigerian national, was purported to be laying the foundations of an “Igbo Kingdom” in Ghana.

The video, originally recorded in 2013, resurfaced online recently and triggered public commentaries and concerns over sovereignty, cultural harmony, and the legal framework surrounding land ownership and foreign presence in Ghana.

According to the Minister, Mr Ihenetu confirmed during a private meeting that the footage was from an outdated and deeply regretted interview conducted more than a decade ago. He stressed that he has not purchased any land for the purpose of creating a kingdom and that the idea has been firmly abandoned.

Chukwudi conveyed profuse apologies to the President, Government, Chiefs and People of Ghana for the unfortunate agitations his rather ill-advised interview has created,” the Minister stated.

Reaffirming Ghana’s longstanding commitment to hospitality and Pan-African unity, the Foreign Minister emphasised that the country remains welcoming to all Africans and people of African descent. However, he cautioned that guests are expected to respect the nation’s laws and traditions.

As I emphasised in the meeting, Ghana is exceptionally proud of its celebrated friendly foreign policy which is welcoming of all to our beautiful and peaceful country, particularly Africans and people of African descent. We are determined to keep championing that Pan-African identity — for which we have attained global renown,” he said.

The government called on the public to remain calm and avoid inflammatory or xenophobic rhetoric, reminding all of the strong and historic bonds between Ghana and Nigeria.

“We however 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 even as they enjoy our famed hospitality,” the minister stated.

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