The South-East Council of Traditional Rulers has officially abolished the use of the title “Eze Ndigbo” by Igbo leaders residing outside the Igbo land.
Contained in a communique obtained by correspondent and signed by traditional rulers, including His Royal Majesty, Eze E.C. Okeke, (Eze Imo), and His Royal Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Leader), the council said it has wished to replace “Eze Ndigbo” with “Onyendu Ndigbo,” for leaders residing outside Nigeria/Igbo land.
In the communique on Thursday, the rulers clarified that the use of “Eze” outside Igbo land was inappropriate as it is a sacred traditional title meant only for recognized traditional rulers in the South-East.
In its explanation, the council noted an “Eze” is one who was rightfully enthroned and coronated by his community or kingdom following traditional rites, divinations, and sacred ancestral ceremonies, and must have a kingdom or community to govern.
While it extended appreciation to Igbo leaders in Diaspora for their continuing efforts in unifying Ndigbo and fostering peaceful coexistence with host communities, it stresses that the abolishment was a necessary move.
Meanwhile, the new title, “Onyendu Ndigbo,” according to the council, is to be adopted by the leaders in Diaspora with directive extension to all official documents, signposts, letterheads, and public representations.
The Council warned that failure to comply with this directive will be considered a serious act of defiance, misconduct, and disregard for Igbo traditional authority and judicial pronouncements.
With an aim of fostering recognition, reconciliation, and cooperation between Igbo leaders abroad and traditional/government authorities at home, the Council has welcomed all Igbo leaders in Diaspora into this new era of cultural unity and mutual respect urging them to embrace the resolution without objections.
As custodians of Igbo heritage, the council emphasizes the importance of working together to uphold the dignity of Igbo culture and traditions, ensuring they are respected and preserved at all times.
Recall that, on July 8 youth organisations in Accra and the Eastern Region led a protest following the coronation of a traditional Igbo ruler, Eze Chukwudi Ihenetu, as “Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana” (King of Igbo People in Ghana).
The incident caused reactions and debate in Igbo land home and beyond leading to an argument over the sovereignty, cultural identity, and the boundaries of foreign community leadership.
Later, images of of Eze Ihenetu’s grand palace in Accra, adorned with regal symbols and elaborate architecture began circulating online.
Following that incident and more, the South-East Council of Traditional Rulers decided to completely abolish the title for use by Igbo leaders in Diaspora to maintain the peace, unity and uphold necessary boundaries and sovereignty in Igbo land.
