The Igbo Admiration for Strong Global Leaders: Understanding the Igbo Support for Trump, Putin, Netanyahu, and Musk

Living as an Igbo in the United States, I've observed the remarkable admiration that many Igbos and South-Eastern Nigerians, particularly those living in Nigeria, have for influential global figures like Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Elon Musk. In South-Eastern Nigeria, Trump enjoys near-deity popularity among many Igbos, a sentiment that extends to other assertive leaders and unconventional innovators.

Most Igbo Trump supporters, particularly those affiliated with or sympathetic to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement, view him as a figure who champions sovereignty and challenges the status quo. In 2016, for example, an Igbo friend of mine in Europe urged me to support and vote for 'Mazi Trump,' using the Igbo honorific 'Mazi,' which means 'Sir.' In Igboland, 'Mazi' is a mark of respect for men who are seen as mature, honorable, or hold a respected position in their community, reflecting a commitment to Igbo cultural values. This friend believed Trump would support IPOB's quest for Biafran independence and assumed that, given my Igbo consciousness, I would naturally support the IPOB movement and that Trump would as well.

But I will leave any discussion of the IPOB movement for another day.

Though these Trump enthusiasts in South-Eastern Nigeria are neither U.S. voters nor residents—and many have never set foot on American soil—and know they might never do so—they are fervently urging U.S.-based Igbos and South-Eastern Nigerians to support him in the upcoming presidential election. Known to some as 'Igbo MAGAs,' they have taken their admiration to remarkable lengths: crafting Trump posters, displaying his photos in their shops, and campaigning locally with the same intensity as if the election were happening on their own soil.

Some of these supporters critique both Christianity and Islam, cautiously advocating a return to traditional Igbo spiritual practices. They view the major world religions as foreign impositions on Africans. Yet, many remain staunchly Christian, often aligning with American Evangelicalism. The admiration for Trump is part of a broader appreciation for strong global figures known for assertive leadership.

Beyond Trump, leaders like Putin and Netanyahu are esteemed for their uncompromising stances and defense of their nations' interests. Elon Musk captivates Igbos in Nigeria and North America with his bold, innovative, and unorthodox approach to business and technology. To Igbos, Musk’s success epitomizes entrepreneurial dreams, defiance, and the pursuit of the groundbreaking achievements they cherish.

Conversely, left-leaning figures like Bill Gates and George Soros are often viewed with suspicion. Some Igbos believe these leaders may have hidden agendas aimed at depopulating Africa through questionable methods. They argue that such actions are disguised as philanthropy or involve using Africa as a testing ground for environmental and technological experiments.

Back in the Obama days, many Igbos and South-Eastern Nigerians who would later become Trump supporters did not share the widespread enthusiasm among Sub-Saharan Africans over his election as the first Black U.S. president. Instead, they viewed Obama as a sellout, representing a militant liberal left-wing agenda. They especially resented his strong promotion of policies like abortion and same-sex marriage and unions in Africa. They lauded some African leaders such as presidents Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, Macky Sall of Senegal, and Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, who openly rebuffed Obama's push for same-sex rights in Africa.

Several factors contribute to this strong support among Igbos and South-Eastern Nigerians for unusual leaders like Trump, Putin, Netanyahu, and Musk.

I will attempt to address these factors here, but before then, I will highlight a few ways Igbos have been described.

Who are the Igbos of South-Eastern Nigeria?

Many observers often describe the Igbos, known for their red hats and lion-head apparel, as a people marked by resilience, independence, and a unique approach to governance. Unlike many African societies led by monarchies, the Igbos traditionally had no kings. Instead, they valued merit-based leadership and community-driven decision-making, resulting in a decentralized, republican system. This structure emphasized personal achievement and limited government control, challenging British colonial administrators who relied on centralized, local authority for indirect rule.

The Aba (Igbo) Women’s Riot of 1929 is frequently highlighted as a defining example of the Igbo spirit. In a powerful response to oppressive colonial British policies, tens of thousands of Igbo women took to the streets to protest unfair British taxation and patriarchal restrictions. Armed with song, dance, and unyielding resolve, these women confronted the British-imposed taxes and structures, resulting in violent reprisals that left around 50 dead and many injured. However, their resistance forced the resignation of corrupt warrant chiefs and led to reforms, including the appointment of women in Native Courts—a first for West Africa.

This uprising is seen as a precursor to African nationalism, embodying the Igbos' drive for justice and self-determination. Today, the Igbos are among the most prosperous and educated in Sub-Saharan Africa, a testament to their enduring values and achievements.

Factors that Contribute to Strong Support Among Igbos for Unusual Leaders like Trump, Putin, Netanyahu, and Musk

Now, here are some factors that contribute to strong support among Igbos and South-Eastern Nigerians for unusual leaders like Trump, Putin, Netanyahu, and Musk.

1. Desire for Strong Leadership and Self-Determination

Many Igbos feel marginalized within Nigeria's political system. The assertive and unapologetic leadership styles of Trump, Putin, and Netanyahu resonate with their desire for strong figures who can challenge the status quo. These leaders' bold rhetoric on sovereignty and national interests align with the aspirations of those seeking self-determination, especially supporters of the IPOB movement.

2. Perception Influenced by Media

Nigerian media often highlights the accomplishments and assertive styles of these leaders, potentially downplaying controversies. This portrayal resonates with audiences who admire strong leadership. Additionally, there is a general distrust of Western media among Igbos. Many of them dismiss outlets like CNN and MSNBC as biased, reinforcing support for figures like Trump, Putin, Netanyahu, and Musk, whom the networks often malign.

3. Cultural and Religious Values

Conservative values hold a strong influence in Igbo communities. The alignment of leaders like Trump with certain conservative issues, such as opposition to abortion and the promotion of traditional values, strikes a chord with many Igbos. This resonance is rooted in deeply held cultural and religious beliefs that prioritize family and societal norms.

4. Admiration for Anti-Establishment Figures

Leaders who challenge the established global order appeal to Igbos who feel disenfranchised by their own political system. Trump, Putin, and Netanyahu are seen as symbols of resistance against powerful global interests. Elon Musk's unconventional style and defiance of corporate norms make him an appealing figure symbolizing individualism and ambition.

5. Economic Perspectives and Entrepreneurial Aspirations

Trump's image as a successful businessman and Musk's reputation as an innovator resonate with Igbos' admiration for wealth and entrepreneurial success. Their achievements align with the aspirations of many in South Eastern Nigeria who seek economic prosperity and the realization of ambitious endeavors.

6. Skepticism Towards Global Agendas

There is a prevalent suspicion among some Igbos regarding the intentions of global philanthropists and left-leaning figures. Concerns about hidden agendas aimed at Africa fuel a preference for leaders perceived as nationalistic and protective of their country's interests.

My Conclusions

The strong support for leaders like Trump, Putin, Netanyahu, and Musk among Igbos and South-Eastern Nigerians, particularly those living in Nigeria, reflects a complex interplay of cultural aspirations, media influence, and admiration for assertive, anti-establishment figures. These leaders symbolize strength, self-determination, and resistance to perceived oppression, aligning with the desires of many Igbos for strong leadership and significant change. Understanding this support offers valuable insights into the political perceptions shaped by Nigeria's unique social, economic, and ideological landscape.

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