The Edo State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has warned against the use of unauthorised Igbo traditional titles such as Ezeigbo, Ezendigbo, Igwe, and similar designations outside recognised traditional institutions in Igboland.
Speaking at a press conference in Benin City on Monday, the organisation’s State Secretary, Emmanuel Ofodu, said the directive followed a resolution adopted during the group’s General Assembly meeting held on April 9, 2026. He noted that the resolution applies to Igbo communities in Edo State, across Nigeria, and in the diaspora.
According to Ofodu, the establishment of parallel traditional leadership structures outside Igboland lacks cultural legitimacy and is allegedly contrary to an earlier court judgment referenced as Suit No. B/290/2015.
He explained that only constitutionally and traditionally recognised authorities within Igboland have the power to confer such titles. He warned that individuals or groups involved in unauthorised coronations or installations would be acting against established cultural directives and legal pronouncements.
The organisation also reaffirmed its respect for existing traditional institutions in Edo State, including the authority of Ewuare II and other recognised traditional rulers across Edo North and Edo Central senatorial districts.
Ohanaeze called on security agencies, government authorities, and members of the public to regard any unauthorised use of the proscribed titles as invalid. The group stressed that enforcing the directive would help preserve cultural order and prevent potential inter-community conflicts.
The organisation further urged Igbo residents in Edo State to operate through recognised community structures, including town unions and the state chapter of the Igbo Community Union, in line with the broader coordination framework of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
On civic participation, Ofodu announced the commencement of a statewide mobilisation campaign aimed at encouraging eligible residents to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission. He encouraged all Igbo residents aged 18 and above to register, update their voter information where necessary, and actively engage in the electoral process.
Also speaking, the organisation’s Legal Adviser, George Igbokwe, said the decision was influenced by incidents involving individuals in the diaspora who adopted titles such as Eze Ndigbo and Eze Igbo in their countries of residence.
He stated that the practice had generated controversies in countries including South Africa, Ghana, and other parts of the world, prompting the organisation and the Council of Traditional Rulers of Ndigbo to take a firm position.
Igbokwe said the council had resolved that the assumption or performance of the functions associated with titles such as Eze Ndigbo and Eze Igbo outside recognised traditional institutions should be permanently prohibited. He added that the measure was intended to safeguard the integrity of Igbo traditional leadership structures and maintain unity within Igbo communities worldwide.
