My Acceptance of ‘Onyendu’ Title Reflects Humility, Respect for Igbo Traditional Institutions — Amb. Ihenetu
The controversy surrounding the nomenclature of titles for Igbo leaders in the Diaspora was laid to rest on Friday, May 29, following the inauguration of the first batch of leaders with the title Onyendu by the Chairman of the South-East Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze E.C. Okeke.
Among those honoured was the respected Igbo leader in Ghana, Ambassador Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, who was conferred with the title Onyendu Ndigbo Ghana and presented with a certificate of honour.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the ceremony, Onyendu Ihenetu described his acceptance of the new title as a demonstration of humility and profound respect for the South-East traditional rulers.
“They are our fathers. That is why I am here in person to be honoured alongside other Igbo leaders in the Diaspora,” he said.
Reflecting on his 14-year reign as Eze Ndigbo in Ghana, Onyendu Ihenetu noted that he, together with his council of chiefs and palace elders, has remained committed to promoting and preserving Igbo culture and traditions.
Widely recognised both in Ghana and in his Imo State hometown as a worthy ambassador of the Igbo nation, Onyendu Ihenetu’s generosity and humanitarian spirit have positively impacted countless lives, particularly among the less privileged, over the years.
One of his most notable achievements is the annual Igbo New Yam Festival in Ghana. Under his leadership, the event has evolved from a modest cultural gathering into one of Africa’s most celebrated cultural festivals.
The festival attracts traditional rulers, dignitaries, business leaders, and participants from different backgrounds who travel from far and near to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people.
Through the Eze Igbo Foundation, Onyendu Ihenetu has also empowered numerous disadvantaged individuals and provided support to vulnerable members of society.
His Obieziokwu Palace in Ghana has become a major rallying point for Ndigbo, serving as a platform for discussions on issues affecting the Igbo community and fostering unity among Nigerians in the country.
Among his interventions was his role in resolving trade disputes involving Nigerian traders and their Ghanaian counterparts. Alongside other community leaders, he actively engaged relevant stakeholders until amicable solutions were reached.
He also provided assistance to Nigerians stranded in Ghana during business trips, working with palace elders to ensure their welfare and eventual safe reunion with their families in Nigeria.
“Although some of these efforts have come with significant sacrifices and challenges, I will continue to rely on the grace of God Almighty to render humanitarian services to Ndigbo in Ghana and across the Diaspora,” Onyendu Ihenetu stated.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare, unity, and cultural advancement of the Igbo people wherever they may be found around the world.
