By Our Correspondent

In a bid to ensure peaceful co-exitence among the Igbos in diaspora,Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has distanced itself from the controversial installation of an “Igwe Ndigbo na East London” in South Africa, describing the move as lacking legal backing and fueling unnecessary tension.

In a statement issued on March 31, 2026, the group’s National Publicity Secretary, Ezechi Chukwu, expressed concern over the developments in East London and condemned the violence that followed.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide… has noted with dismay the recent developments in East London, South Africa, particularly the tensions arising from the said installation of an ‘Igwe Ndigbo na East London,’” the statement read.

The organisation decried the attacks and destruction of property linked to the controversy, urging authorities to act swiftly to prevent further escalation.

“We express deep concern over the resulting disturbances, condemn the unwarranted attacks on innocent persons and destruction of property and call on relevant authorities to take necessary steps to prevent further escalation,” it stated.
Reaffirming the peaceful nature of the Igbo people, Ohanaeze said it does not support any action that violates the laws or customs of host countries.

“The Igbo people are globally known for their peaceful disposition… Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide unequivocally dissociates itself from any action or conduct that contravenes the laws, customs and traditions of the host countries of its people,” Chukwu said.

The group clarified that the said installation in South Africa holds no legal authority.

“We wish to clarify that, to the best of our knowledge, the said installation in East London only amounts to a mere nominal observance since it is not backed by any law,” the statement added.

Ohanaeze further stressed that, in line with the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, it does not recognise the conferment of the “Eze Ndigbo” title outside Igbo land.

“Our diaspora communities… are once more advised to adopt non-kingship designation such as ‘Onyendu,’ for the avoidance of misrepresentation,” it said.

The organisation called on Igbo communities abroad to remain law-abiding and respectful of their host environments, while appealing to South African authorities and citizens to sustain peaceful coexistence.

“We urge all Igbo people in the diaspora to continue to conduct themselves with discipline, dignity and full respect for the laws and traditions of their host countries,” Chukwu stated.

It concluded with a call for dialogue and restraint, urging all parties to embrace peace and mutual respect amid the tensions.

By David Owei

The people of Ikire today trooped out en masse to host Governor Ademola Adeleke as he presented staff of office to the new Akire of Ikireland, his Royal Majesty, Oba Olanrewaju Tajudeen Akinola, Akintula 1.

Former Deputy Governor of the state, Benedict Alabi hailed the state governor for implementing continuity on the chieftaincy succession for Ikireland, expressing happiness that the current administration retained and implemented the settlement agreement concluded under his former boss, Gboyega Oyetola.

The main host, Senator Lere Oyewumi who was full of prayers for the town and the governor said the Ikire people won’t forget this positive action by the state government, noting that the governor has deepened and sustained peace in the land.

From the main express road to the palace, residents jubilated as the governor who spent his early school days in the town acknowledged cheers and shout of “Imole” in a slow procession to the venue of the coronation.

Accompanied by Deputy Senate Minority leader, Senator Akogun Lere Oyewumi, an entrenched populist leader of Ikire, and with his Eminence, Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup and other top royal fathers in attendance, Governor Adeleke affirmed his administration’s commitment to due process, rule of law and chieftaincy tradition of each towns, adding “I have done the right thing for Ikire people.

“In filling the vacant stool of Akire of Ikire, the Terms of Settlement made at the Appeal Court, Akure in the year 2025 was used. It is pertinent to mention that the stool of Akire of Ikire generated crisis in the year 2021 over the Supreme Court Judgment of 2014 which affirmed that Lambeloye Ruling House that produced late Oba Olatunde Falabi had no legal right to Occupy the stool of Akire of Ikire as at the time it did when a vacancy occurred in 1987.

“The aftermath of the crisis made the last Administration in Osun State in collaboration with all the Five (5) Ruling Houses of Ikire to resolve and jointly agree on the amendment of 1958 Akire Chieftaincy Declaration which paved way for Aketula Ruling House to be the next Ruling House whenever a vacancy
occurred.

“In order to uphold and affirm the efforts of government in resolving the crisis, the Terms of Settlement made was affirmed by the Court of Appeal, Akure in 2025 which clearly stated that Prince Olanrewaju Tajudeen of Aketula Ruling House shall be installed as the next Akire of Ikire whenever the stool became vacant provided that he is alive”, the governor noted.

The governor spoke further: “Kabiyesi, you are a son of destiny. I particularly rejoice with you and felicitate with your fellow Royal Fathers who are also here to celebrate this occasion with you.

“Now that you are on the throne of your fore-fathers, the period of administering the community has begun. See yourself as the father of all citizens of Ikire at home and in the diaspora. Do all you can to unite everyone behind you and daily seek the growth and development of Ikire. Irewole Local Government, Osun State and Nigeria as a whole. Cooperate with my Administration and mobilize your people to contribute their quota to the growth and development of the
State.

“My administration has brought a lot of development to Ikire and I urge you all to troop out massively on August 15th 2026. Kabiyesi, I am a son of Ikire by adoption. My early days while growing up were spent in this great town. So I enjoin Ikire people to vote for my party, the Accord, the first on the ballot, to ensure the continuity of the good governance we are all enjoying”, the governor noted.

Calling himself an adopted son of the land, the governor recalled his affinity with Ikire, seeking for continuous support of the people for his government and continuity beyond 2026.

The new Akire in his response appreciated the sincerity and passionate commitment of the governor to the peace and development of Ikireland, assuring the governor and the people that he would not waiver in supporting peace and progress of the town and the state.

By Philip Ezuma, Port Harcourt

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Niger Delta, stressing the need to continually promote the rich traditions of ethnic nationalities across the Niger Delta region.

Speaking during the Niger Delta Arts and Culture Expo in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the cultural event reflects Nigeria’s enduring strength in unity despite its diversity.

The event, with the theme: “Rhythm of the Niger Delta: Music, Dance and the Heartbeat of Our People,” brought together stakeholders and cultural groups from across the region, displaying traditional music, dance, and artistic expressions in a vibrant celebration of heritage and unity.

The NDDC Managing Director, represented by the Akwa Ibom State Representative on the NDDC Board, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, described the Arts and Culture Expo as a powerful platform to celebrate the region’s rich heritage through music, dance, and indigenous expressions.

He stated: “What we have witnessed today is a clear demonstration that culture remains the soul of our people. It cannot be diminished by technology. The Niger Delta has once again shown its rich, vibrant and beautiful heritage.”

Ogbuku added that the event reinforced the bonds of love, unity, and shared identity among the people of the region, while also showcasing their appreciation for the Commission’s efforts to promote cultural integration.

He noted that the NDDC continued to gain recognition for its developmental strides, including the successful hosting of the second Niger Delta Games in Benin, Edo State, and the completion of projects across the region.

Ogbuku said further: “Our story has changed. Today, the NDDC is receiving commendation at the highest level, including President Bola Tinubu. With continued support, we can assure that the best is yet to come.”

In her remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Ambassador Amaba Ogbuku described the Expo as a powerful reminder of identity and cultural pride.

“Without culture, we are nothing. It defines who we are and reminds us of our heritage wherever we find ourselves in the world,” she said.

She urged participants to embrace unity and uphold the values that bind the people of the Niger Delta together.

Also speaking, the NDDC Director of Culture and Women Affairs at NDDC, Mrs Ahunna Imoni, said the Arts and Culture Expo highlights the region’s uniqueness and diversity.

She noted: “Culture brings us together. It tells our story, reflects our values, and connects us across generations. This event is not just about performances, but about unity, pride, and shared identity.” ###.