Popular Igbo community leader in Ghana, Eze Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, on Wednesday, September 17, visited the Manhyia Palace, the seat of the Ashanti Kingdom, to condole with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, following the passing of the Asantehemaa.

In a video shared on social media, Eze Ihenetu was seen alongside his sub-chiefs as they paid homage to the Asantehene on the third day of the funeral rites.

This marks the Igbo leader’s first public appearance in weeks after a resurfaced 2013 video sparked controversy. In the video, Ihenetu had outlined plans to establish a business community for Igbos in Ghana, but his remarks were misinterpreted by some as a declaration to set up an Igbo kingdom in Ghana.

The matter was later clarified after a closed-door meeting between Ihenetu and Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

Following the meeting, the Minister explained that Ihenetu confirmed the footage was taken from a 2013 interview and that the proposed project had long been abandoned.

Mr. Ihenetu also tendered an unreserved apology to then-President John Mahama, the Government, traditional authorities, and the people of Ghana for the misunderstanding and unrest caused by his comments.

Emphasizing Ghana’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, Minister Ablakwa said: “As I emphasised in the meeting, Ghana is exceptionally proud of its celebrated, friendly foreign policy, which welcomes all to our beautiful and peaceful country, particularly Africans and people of African descent. We are determined to continue championing that Pan-African identity for which we have attained global renown.”

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