Traditional rulers from the South East of the country have abolished the use of the title “Eze Ndigbo” for Igbo leaders outside Igboland.
The resolution was reached at a recent meeting of the traditional rulers.
According to the Chairman of Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Imo, Eze Emmanuel Okeke, the decision was made after meetings, deliberations and due consideration.
Eze Okeke, said the title approved for such a leader is ‘Onyendu Ndigbo’ (Igbo Leader in Diaspora).
The resolution was signed by Eze Okeke, Igwe Nneameka Achebe (Leader) and chairmen of traditional councils in Enugu, Anambra, Abia and Ebonyi states.
The council says the title ‘Eze’ is reserved for traditional rulers recognised by the government in Southeast states, and cannot be given to persons residing outside Igbo communities.
The leaders noted that the use of ‘Eze Ndigbo’ outside Igboland was a corruption of the monarchical system of Ezeship and an abuse of culture and tradition.
The council also clarified that the celebration of Igbo cultural festivals outside Igboland should be done with the consent and approval of the leadership of the Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers or of a particular state Council of Traditional Rulers.
