The High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the Republic of South Africa has addressed recent developments concerning the reported installation of an individual as "Igwe Ndigbo na East London" (King of the Igbo people in East London) by members of the Nigerian community in South Africa.

The High Commission said it has taken note of the concerns expressed by South African authorities, particularly the esteemed traditional leadership structures, and members of the public regarding this matter. The Mission noted with regret that this development has generated understandable concerns among South African authorities, traditional leaders, and the general public, particularly in the light of the country's established legal and cultural frameworks governing traditional leadership.

The High Commission stated unequivocally that, contrary to the narrative in the public domain, no coronation took place and none was intended.

The Mission said, "The Federal Republic of Nigeria holds the sovereignty, laws, customs, and traditions of the Republic of South Africa and its people in the highest regard. Nigeria deeply values the longstanding bilateral relations between both countries, which are anchored on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to African unity and development. It is in the light of this, that the earlier Live TV interview by our Head of Mission to reiterate the commitment of Nigeria to respecting the host laws and customs, could be understood.

"At this point, we would like to crave the indulgence of the public to explain the essence of cultural eventsin Nigeria. Nigeria by composition is made up of diverse ethnic nationalities, the three major of which are Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo.

"Central to Igbo cultural expression are festive celebrations, which are not merely moments of entertainment but profound expressions of history, spirituality, and social cohesion. Among the most prominent is the New Yam Festival (Iri Ji), a thanksgiving event held annually to mark the end of the farming season and the beginning of the harvest.

"Equally significant are masquerade festivals (Mmanwu), where elaborate costumed performances, embody ancestral spirits. These masquerades are not only aesthetic spectacles but also serve important spiritual and social functions entertaining, educating and sometimes enforcing community norms.

"Traditional marriage ceremonies (Igba Nkwu) further highlight the richness of Igbo culture. These events are elaborate, involving extended family negotiations, symbolic rites, and joyful festivities that can span several days.

"The title-taking ceremonies, such as the conferment of chieftaincy titles, are also central to Igbo cultural life. They recognize personal achievements, integrity, and service to the community. These events are marked with grandeur, with recipients adorned in traditional regalia, accompanied by cultural displays and communal acknowledgment of their new status.

"In the light of this broader cultural context, it is important to emphasize that the event in East London has no territorial ambition, political authority or agenda within the host communities. Rather, it is a symbolic affirmation"