• South East rulers abolish Diaspora stools
From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Traditional rulers from the South East have expressed their displeasure over the proliferation of traditional stools outside Igbo land. So, at their meeting in Enugu, last week, they officially abolished the use of the title “Eze Ndigbo” by Igbo leaders residing outside Igbo land.
The monarchs rather renamed such leaders, Onyendu Ndigbo, as appropriate titles for leaders of Igbo living outside Igbo land.
This was announced in a communique 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 Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers said that they appreciated the efforts of Igbo leaders in Diaspora in unifying Igbo and fostering peaceful coexistence with host communities. They commended their commitment to promoting Igbo culture and traditions, but said that the council deemed it necessary to provide clarity regarding the use of the title “Eze” outside Igbo land: “Eze” is a sacred traditional title exclusively reserved for recognised traditional rulers in the Southeast, as sanctioned by Igbo customs, culture, and state legislation.
“That a true “Eze” is enthroned and coronated by his community or kingdom following traditional rites, divinations, and sacred ancestral ceremonies; that an “Eze” must have a kingdom or community to govern, and that the title is not honorary or symbolic but signifies rulership over a defined territory.”
They further noted that “Ofo” is a symbol of authority bestowed upon a traditional ruler by his people, signifying his spiritual and cultural legitimacy and that the title of “Eze” cannot be conferred on individuals residing outside Igbo communities.
“It is not a political or ceremonial title but one deeply rooted in Igbo tradition and heritage. To resolve the long-standing controversy surrounding the improper use of the title “Eze Ndigbo” outside Igbo land, the Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers has unanimously approved “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 monarchs 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, will foster better recognition, reconciliation, and cooperation between Igbo leaders abroad and traditional/government authorities at home.
“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.”
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