The Edo State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has prohibited the use of unapproved Igbo traditional titles such as Ezeigbo, Ezendigbo, Igwe, and similar designations outside officially recognized traditional institutions in Igboland.
Speaking at a press conference in Benin City, the group’s secretary, Emmanuel Ofodu, explained that the directive was based on a resolution reached during Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide’s General Assembly on April 9, 2026. The decision applies to Igbo communities in Edo State, across Nigeria, and in the diaspora.
According to Ofodu, establishing parallel traditional leadership structures outside Igboland has no cultural legitimacy and is reportedly contrary to an existing court judgment. He stressed that only recognized traditional authorities within Igboland have the power to confer such titles.
He further stated that individuals or groups conducting unauthorized coronations or installations would be acting against both cultural traditions and legal directives. The resolution also reaffirmed the group’s respect and loyalty to established traditional rulers, including the Oba of Benin, and other recognized monarchs in Edo State.
Ohanaeze urged security agencies, government authorities, and the public to disregard any unauthorized use of these traditional titles and support efforts to maintain cultural order and harmony.
The organization also encouraged Igbo residents in Edo State to operate through recognized community structures such as town unions and the Igbo Community Union. Additionally, it called on eligible residents to participate actively in the ongoing voter registration exercise organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The state legal adviser, George Igbokwe, noted that the decision was influenced by incidents involving individuals in countries such as South Africa, Ghana, and other parts of the world who assumed titles like Eze Ndigbo without proper authorization. He said Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, in collaboration with the Council of Traditional Rulers of Ndigbo, has permanently prohibited the use and performance of duties associated with such titles outside recognized traditional institutions.
