Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has addressed the controversy surrounding Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, a Nigerian national who recently went viral for claiming he intended to establish an “Igbo Kingdom” in Ghana.
In a statement shared on social media, Mr. Ablakwa revealed that he had personally invited Chukwudi for a meeting following the public outcry over the resurfaced video.
“Yesterday, I invited Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, the gentleman captured in a viral video claiming he intends to establish an Igbo Kingdom in Ghana following an alleged purchase of a tract of land,” the minister disclosed.
According to Ablakwa, Chukwudi clarified that the video in question was from 2013 and that he has since abandoned the idea. “Izwe clarified that it was an old 2013 interview which he deeply regrets. He assured that he has long abandoned that idea and has not purchased any piece of land for that purpose,” he said.
Chukwudi, who serves as the traditional head of the Igbo community in Ghana, reportedly issued an unreserved apology during the meeting. “Chukwudi conveyed profuse apologies to the President, Government, Chiefs and People of Ghana for the unfortunate agitations his rather ill-advised interview has created,” Ablakwa noted.
While reaffirming Ghana’s Pan-African credentials and friendly foreign policy, the Minister cautioned that hospitality must not be mistaken for permissiveness.
“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,” he stated.
“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.”
Mr. Ablakwa called for calm and reminded the public of the strong bond between Ghana and Nigeria.
“Government urges calm and restraint and recalls the inseparable bond of friendship and brotherhood between Ghana and Nigeria.
“Let us all in the true spirit of African solidarity guard our commentary so this matter does not degenerate into xenophobic consequences.”
Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu became the centre of online discussion in Ghana after a video of him proclaiming plans to build an “Igbo Kingdom” on 50 acres of land in Ningo went viral, sparking public concern and diplomatic anxiety.
