The Igbo Community Association FCT has condemned the attempted installation of an “Ezeigbo” title in South Africa, describing it as illegal and a violation of Igbo customs.

In a statement issued by its President General, Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, the association warned that such actions could trigger tensions and damage the reputation of Igbo people globally.

The group expressed concern over the backlash generated by the incident in South Africa, noting that while hostile reactions were regrettable, the organisers of the coronation bear responsibility for provoking the situation.

It reiterated that the practice of enthroning “Ezeigbo” titles outside Igbo land has been outlawed by the South East Traditional Council and affirmed by Ohaneze Ndigbo.

“It is wrong, illegal, and a direct violation of our customs to enthrone a king in another person’s domain,” the statement said.

The association stressed that it would not allow the actions of a few individuals in the diaspora to endanger the safety and dignity of Igbo communities worldwide.

It also called on Nigerian and international security agencies to intervene and prevent further occurrences.

“We are calling on security agencies to stop the proliferation of these illegal coronations. Anyone parading himself as ‘Ezeigbo’ in the diaspora should be arrested and prosecuted,” the group stated.

The ICA FCT further warned against a repeat of past diplomatic tensions experienced in countries like Ghana, urging strict adherence to cultural norms and respect for host nation laws.

It emphasised the need to preserve Igbo heritage through lawful conduct and alignment with directives from traditional institutions in Nigeria’s South East.

David-Chyddy Eleke