The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has affirmed its solidarity and recognition of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide as a recognised socio-cultural body of the Igbo people.
The President-General of NICASA, Mr. Frank Onyekwelu, made the affirmation in a statement issued on Friday, amid concerns about a possible breach of the established traditional leadership structure in South Africa.
He stressed the need for clarification regarding the misconceptions and misrepresentations surrounding the installation of the Igwe Ndigbo in East London.
According to him, the clarification becomes necessary following growing concerns and misleading narratives suggesting the recognition of Igbo community leadership, particularly the position referred to as Igwe East London.
Onyekwelu said, “We support its mandate of fostering unity, cultural preservation, and responsible leadership among Ndigbo, both at home and in the diaspora.
“We reiterate our unwavering commitment to the sovereignty of the Republic of South Africa. We fully respect and uphold the Constitution of South Africa, its laws, and its established traditional leadership institutions and customs.
“We recognise the authority and dignity of South African traditional leaders and remain committed to peaceful coexistence, lawful conduct, and constructive engagement within our host nation.
“We sincerely regret any confusion, concern, or unintended tension that may have arisen due to the misinterpretation of this cultural event.
“NICASA remains dedicated to promoting harmony, mutual respect, and positive relations between the Nigerian community and all peoples of South Africa.”
He decried the claims about certain reports and public narratives/videos in circulation to have inaccurately portrayed the event as an attempt to establish a parallel governance structure or to undermine the sovereignty and constitutional order of South Africa.
This, according to him, NICASA unequivocally rejects such assertions as false, misleading, and without foundation.
He explained that the institution of Igwe Ndigbo is a cultural and traditional expression of the Igbo people in the diaspora.
“Its purpose is strictly to promote unity, preserve cultural identity, and provide social cohesion within the community. It does not possess, nor does it seek to exercise, any political or governmental authority within South Africa.
“We can confirm there was no coronation, nor any kingdom established; However, a title installation was observed for the single purpose of fostering peace and unity within the cultural heritage of Igbo people and preserving Igbo culture in Diaspora.
He commended the government authorities, traditional institutions, and the general public for their understanding and cooperation, while promising to contribute meaningfully to the social and economic development of South Africa. (NAN)
