Ohanaeze Ndigbo Bans Eze Ndigbo Titles Abroad As FG Condemns Practice

The Federal Government of Nigeria has raised concerns over the growing trend of installing Eze Ndigbo leaders in foreign countries, warning that the practice is creating diplomatic challenges and placing Nigeria in a difficult position internationally.

This position was conveyed in a statement issued by Dr. Magnus Eze, Special Assistant on Communication and New Media to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The government noted that it is working with Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the South East Council of Traditional Rulers to halt such coronations outside Igboland.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed the government’s concerns during an Imeobi meeting—the highest decision-making body of Ohanaeze—held in Enugu.

She explained that although Igbo communities abroad often promote their culture through social activities, establishing traditional leadership structures overseas has led to disputes within diaspora groups and friction with authorities in host countries.

According to her, cultural heritage can still be preserved without actions that may be interpreted as undermining local systems or causing instability. She added that the trend has drawn negative attention to both Nigeria and Igbo communities globally.

Her remarks follow recent tensions in Eastern Cape, South Africa, where the installation of an Eze Ndigbo in East London sparked protests, clashes with security forces, and destruction of property. South African authorities, including the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, reportedly declared the coronation unlawful, with local traditional institutions opposing it.

The minister said Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has initiated diplomatic engagements to manage the situation and prevent further incidents. She also clarified that Nigeria’s mission in South Africa had described the coronation as a cultural event, not an officially recognised traditional institution.

In response, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in collaboration with South East traditional rulers, has resolved to abolish the recognition of Eze Ndigbo titles outside Igboland.

The group’s President-General, Azuta Mbata, stated that such titles will no longer be acknowledged, adding that governments and Nigerian embassies worldwide will be formally notified.

He further warned that individuals who assume such titles abroad will not be recognised by the Igbo community, noting that measures will be taken to enforce compliance.

The Federal Government also pledged to support the directive through its diplomatic missions to prevent further misunderstandings and conflicts in other countries.