The Federal Government has criticised the growing practice of conferring “Eze Ndigbo” titles on individuals in foreign countries, warning that it tarnishes Nigeria’s image and could provoke tensions within host communities.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known on Thursday while addressing the Imeobi, the apex decision-making body of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, in Enugu.
She described the trend as an embarrassment not only to the Federal Government but also to the Igbo community, Nigerians at large, and citizens of countries where such titles are being awarded.
The minister’s remarks follow recent unrest in Eastern Cape, South Africa, after the coronation of Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as “Eze Ndigbo na East London,” which triggered protests by residents and political groups.
The protests reportedly escalated into violence, including the destruction of foreign-owned vehicles and looting of businesses.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu cautioned that cultural practices must align with the laws and traditions of host countries, adding that diplomatic engagements were ongoing to manage the fallout from such incidents.
She also recalled a similar development in Ghana in July 2025, where protests over the issue led to demands for Nigerians to leave the country.
According to her, tensions were doused after a Nigerian delegation engaged key stakeholders, including President John Mahama, as well as security agencies and traditional authorities.
She credited Mahama’s intervention for restoring calm, noting his firm position against xenophobia.
The minister warned that without swift diplomatic efforts, the safety of Nigerians and their businesses in Ghana could have been severely threatened.
She, therefore, urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide to enforce sanctions against individuals who disregard its directive banning the conferment of such titles outside Igboland.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would collaborate with Nigerian missions abroad to circulate and enforce the group’s position.
