Confusion erupts after ‘Igbo king’ allegedly denied handshake with Otumfuo at Manhyia

Some social media users have mocked the ‘Igbo king’ in Ghana, Eze Chuckwudi Jude Ihenetu, after he reportedly failed to shake hands with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the funeral ceremony of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.

On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, Eze Ihenetu, who recently sparked controversy over allegedly attempting to establish a kingdom in Ghana, was captured with his entourage at the Manhyia Palace to pay homage to the late queen mother.

In a viral video, the ‘Igbo king’ and his delegation arrived at the funeral grounds to sympathise with the Asantehene.

While Otumfuo sat receiving greetings, his linguist (kyeame), Baffour Kantankrakye, alongside other traditional leaders, directed mourners and guests.

The entourage was asked to remove their hats as part of traditional rites and to pay homage from a distance, without directly shaking the Asantehene’s hand.

After the incident, videos circulated online showing Eze Ihenetu appearing visibly unhappy with the situation, sparking a heated debate on social media.

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While some users questioned why he was not allowed to shake hands with Otumfuo, others mocked the self-acclaimed king, claiming he had been “snubbed” at Manhyia.

Social media reactions included, “I still don’t understand why they didn’t allow the Igbo king to send his condolences to the Asantehene.”

“They told the Igbo king in Ghana to remove his crown and bow. He wanted to greet the Asante King, but they bounced him like Peter Obi.”

“The Igbo chief was not allowed to greet the King.”

“Meet Baffour Osei Kwame, Otumfuo’s kyeame. He didn’t allow the Igbo king to greet Otumfuo at Manhyia.”

“They didn’t allow the Igbo king to meet Otumfuo. He can only do that in Accra.”

“Otumfuo bounced the Igbo king.”

“The Igbo was totally embarrassed at Manhyia… Video evidence shows how the so-called Igbo king in Ghana was denied access to see Otumfuo.

“He just stood aside with his entourage until they got tired and left. Don’t joke with the Ashanti Kingdom, that is the message.”

“The moment they didn’t allow the Accra Igbo king to greet and shake Asantehene’s hand. He thought Kumasi was some place I can’t even mention.”

AM/SEA

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