South East Traditional Rulers Approves “Onyendu Ndigbo” Title For lgbo Leaders ln Diaspora.
…….Abolishes “Eze Ndigbo”Title,Says failure to comply will be considered as a disregard for Igbo traditional authority and judicial pronouncements.
Onyebuchi Onwuchekwa.
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.
In a communique signed and issued by His Royal Majesty, Eze (Dr.) E.C. Okeke, CFR (Eze Imo), His Royal Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Leader), and the Chairmen of the traditional councils of Enugu, Anambra, Abia, and Ebonyi States stated that all Igbo leaders in diaspora are required to adopt this new title with immediate effect and extend it to all their official documents, signposts, letterheads, and public representations.
The South East traditional rulers went further to appreciates the efforts of Igbo leaders in diaspora in unifying Ndigbo and fostering peaceful coexistence with host communities, noting that their commitment to promoting Igbo culture and traditions is highly commendable.
Eze (Dr) Okeke who spoke on behalf of the council stated that the use of Eze Ndigbo by lgbo leaders is hereby abolished, noting that “Eze” is a sacred traditional title exclusively reserved for recognized traditional rulers in the Southeast, as sanctioned by Igbo customs, culture, and state legislation.
He went on to say that a true “Eze” is enthroned and coronated by his community or kingdom following traditional rites, divinations, and sacred ancestral ceremonies and that an“Eze” must have a kingdom or community to govern as the title is not honorary or symbolic but signifies rulership over a defined territory.
The Eze lmo pointed out that the title of “Eze” cannot be conferred on individuals residing outside Igbo communities as the “Ofo” is a symbol of authority bestowed upon a traditional ruler by his people, signifying his spiritual and cultural legitimacy.
He warned that failure to comply with the 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.
While extending their hand of fellowship to all Igbo leaders abroad,urged them to embrace this resolution for the collective growth and advancement of Ndigbo,noting that compliance 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”
“The Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers welcomes all Igbo leaders in Diaspora into this new era of cultural unity and mutual respect. “he submitted
