Ohanaeze bans Ezeigbo, Igwe titles outside igboland, launches voter mobilisation drive

The Edo State Chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has prohibited the use of unauthorised traditional titles such as Ezeigbo, Ezendigbo, Igwe and other monarchical designations outside recognised traditional institutions in Igboland, describing the practice as culturally invalid and contrary to established directives

Speaking at a press conference in Benin City, the State Secretary of the organisation, Emmanuel Ofoedu, said the decision followed a resolution adopted at the General Assembly of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide on April 9, 2026, and applies to Igbo communities in Edo State, across Nigeria and in the Diaspora.
Ofoedu said only

Ofoedu said only constitutionally and traditionally recognised authorities in Igboland have the mandate to confer such titles, stressing that the creation of parallel traditional leadership structures outside the region is unacceptable.

He warned that individuals or groups involved in unauthorised coronations, installations or the operation of parallel traditional institutions would be acting in violation of established cultural directives and existing legal pronouncements.

According to him, the directive is aimed at preserving the integrity of Igbo traditional institutions and preventing disputes arising from conflicting claims to traditional authority.

The organisation also reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence with host communities, pledging continued respect for established traditional institutions in Edo State, including the Benin Royal Stool headed by Oba Ewuare II and other recognised traditional rulers.

Ofoedu called on security agencies, government authorities and members of the public to disregard and reject the use of unauthorised traditional titles, noting that strict adherence to the directive would help maintain cultural order and social harmony.

The group further announced the commencement of a statewide mobilisation campaign to encourage participation in the ongoing voter registration exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Describing voter registration as critical to political representation and democratic participation, Ofoedu urged all eligible Igbo residents aged 18 years and above to register, update their voter records where necessary and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Speaking on the rationale behind the prohibition, the State Legal Adviser of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, George Igbokwe, said the decision was informed by experiences in countries such as South Africa, Ghana and the Netherlands, where disputes allegedly emerged from the proliferation of self-styled Eze Ndigbo and Eze Igbo titles.

He added that Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, in conjunction with the Council of Traditional Rulers in Igboland, had resolved to permanently prohibit the assumption or exercise of such titles outside recognised traditional structures.