Founder and presidential candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Hassan Ayariga, has opposed an alleged attempt by a Nigerian national to establish an Igbo kingdom in the country.

According to Dr. Ayariga, the development poses a grave threat to the sovereignty, unity, and legal integrity of the Republic of Ghana.

In a press release dated 8th July, Dr. Ayariga alleged that a Nigerian of Igbo descent had reportedly acquired more than 50 acres of land in Ghana to set up a personal kingdom. Describing the act as “illegal, unacceptable, and dangerous,” he accused the unnamed foreign national of exploiting Ghana’s hospitality and ignoring the sovereign laws that govern the country.

“At a time when Ghanaian youth are struggling to find employment and shelter, it is both insensitive and offensive for a foreign individual to be permitted to secure vast lands for the creation of a so-called kingdom,” Dr. Ayariga stated. He warned that condoning such actions would erode national dignity and create a precedent that could jeopardise the authority of state institutions.

Calling for immediate action, Dr. Ayariga demanded a full-scale investigation by National Security into the land acquisition process, as well as the revocation of all permits associated with the venture.

He also urged the arrest and prosecution of the individuals involved, and called on the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, alongside the Lands Commission, to explain how such a transaction was allowed to proceed under their watch.

He further advocated for a firm policy directive from the government to prohibit any foreign national from establishing chieftaincies or kingdoms on Ghanaian soil. “Ghana is not for sale. Our freedom is not negotiable. Our people deserve better,” Dr. Ayariga said.

He emphasised that Ghana’s generous and welcoming spirit must not be misconstrued as weakness.

Dr Ayariga therefore, made the following demands:

1. An immediate investigation by the National Security and relevant authorities into the land acquisition and all individuals involved in facilitating this agenda.
2. Revocation of all land documents and permits issued to build a so-called kingdom.
3. Arrest and prosecution of the said Nigerian citizen and any accomplices found to be acting in violation of Ghana’s laws.
4. A public statement and accountability from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Lands Commission regarding how such a transaction was permitted.
5. A firm policy directive from the government to prevent the unauthorized establishment of chieftaincies or kingdoms by foreign nationals in Ghana.

Who are the Igbo people of Nigeria?

The Igbo people are one of Nigeria’s largest and most influential ethnic groups, predominantly located in the southeastern states such as Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo. Known for their rich culture, entrepreneurial spirit, and communal life, the Igbo speak a distinct language with many dialects and place great value on individual achievement and ancestral heritage.

Traditionally decentralised in political structure, Igbo society is governed through village assemblies and age-grade systems. While many Igbos have embraced Christianity, traditional beliefs in a supreme deity (Chukwu), spirits, and ancestors still influence cultural practices.

Celebrations like the New Yam Festival and vibrant masquerade traditions reflect the depth of Igbo spirituality and cultural expression, according to multiple sources.