The Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers on Friday announced the abolition of the use of the title “Eze Ndigbo” by Igbo leaders residing outside Igbo land.
The decision was announced in a communique signed by Eze E.C. Okeke, (Eze Imo), Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Leader), and the chairmen of the Traditional Councils of Enugu, Anambra, Abia, and Ebonyi States.
The Council in the Communique appreciated the efforts of Igbo leaders in Diaspora in unifying Ndigbo and fostering peaceful coexistence with host communities, describing their commitment to promoting Igbo culture and traditions as highly commendable.
However, the council clarified that the title ‘Eze’ is a sacred traditional title exclusively reserved for recognized traditional rulers in the Southeast, as sanctioned by Igbo customs, culture, and state legislation.
According to them, a true ‘Eze’ is 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, insisting that the title is not honorary or symbolic.
The monarchs further clarified that the ‘Ofo’ is a symbol of authority bestowed upon a traditional ruler by his people, signifying his spiritual and cultural legitimacy, maintaining that the title of ‘Eze’ cannot be conferred on individuals residing outside Igbo communities, as it is not a political or ceremonial title but one deeply rooted in Igbo tradition and heritage.
The Council, in its bid to resolve the long-standing controversy surrounding the improper use of the title ‘Eze Ndigbo’ outside Igbo land, unanimously approved the title of ‘Onyendu Ndigbo’ (Igbo Leader in Diaspora) as the official designation for any Igbo leader in foreign lands or outside Nigeria.
“All Igbo leaders in Diaspora are required to adopt this new title immediately. This directive extends to all official documents, signposts, letterheads, and public representations,” the communique read.
The Council warned that failure to comply with this directive, especially after a competent court ruling on the matter, will be considered a serious act of defiance, misconduct, and disregard for Igbo traditional authority and judicial pronouncements.
Compliance, on the other hand, it said, will foster better recognition, reconciliation, and cooperation between Igbo leaders abroad and traditional/government authorities at home.
“The Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers welcomes all Igbo leaders in Diaspora into this new era of cultural unity and mutual respect. We extend our hand of fellowship to all Igbo leaders abroad and urge them to embrace this resolution for the collective growth and advancement of Ndigbo.
“As custodians of Igbo heritage, we must work together to uphold the dignity of our culture and traditions, ensuring they are respected and preserved at all times,” the communique concluded.
