Ohaneze-Ndigbo, Niger State Chapter Abolishes Eze-ndigbo Title; Unveils New Leadership.
From Our Correspondent.
In a move aligned with the South-East Traditional Rulers’ Council, the Niger State chapter of Ohaneze-Ndigbo has officially abolished the title of “Eze-ndigbo” for Igbo individuals residing outside the core Igbo-speaking states.
The organization has granted a three-month grace period for those currently holding the title to transition to “Onye-ndu,” meaning “Leader,” to avoid sanctions.
This announcement was made in a statement jointly signed by Chief Joseph Chukwuemeka Onuigbo, Chairman of the BOT/Elders Council, and Chief Emmanuel Ezeugo, President of the Niger State chapter of Ohaneze-Ndigbo, during an address in Minna on Sunday.
The statement detailed that any Igbo title holder in Niger State who fails to comply with the new order by the end of the grace period will forfeit their traditional title rights at Igbo gatherings.
The council asserted that the “Eze” title is reserved exclusively for traditional rulers recognized by the governments in South-East states and is not applicable to individuals residing outside these communities.
Additionally, the Ohaneze Ndigbo Elders Council has abolished the use of the titles “Royal Highness” and “Royal Majesty” among all Igbo-speaking title holders in Niger State, further emphasizing the adherence to the new directive.
In a related development, a new executive leadership has been elected to steer the affairs of the Ohaneze-Ndigbo for the next four years.
The elections, held in Bida Local Government Area over the weekend, saw Dr. Martins Orji emerge as President-elect, alongside Barrister Sebastien Ogbogo, Pastor Dan Okoro as Treasurer, and Ikechukwu Agbo as Auditor.
This leadership change marks a new chapter for the apex Igbo cultural association in Niger State, underscoring a commitment to cultural integrity and leadership unity within the Igbo community.
