Ohanaeze Ndigbo bans unauthorized traditional titles outside Igboland

The Edo State Chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has issued a strong warning against the unauthorized use of Igbo traditional titles, such as Ezeigbo, Ezendigbo, and Igwe, outside of recognized traditional institutions within Igboland. This directive, formalized by a resolution from the organization's General Assembly on April 9, 2026, is intended to apply universally to all Igbo communities residing in Edo State, across Nigeria, and in the diaspora.

Emmanuel Ofodu, the state secretary of the group, emphasized that the creation or operation of parallel traditional leadership structures outside Igboland is not only culturally invalid but also potentially conflicts with existing legal rulings, referencing Suit No. B/290/2015. He asserted that only constitutionally and traditionally recognized authorities in Igboland possess the mandate to confer such titles. Consequently, any individual or group engaging in unauthorized coronations or installations will be acting in violation of both cultural norms and legal pronouncements.

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This is to let you know that 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.

The resolution also reaffirms cooperation with Edo State's established traditional authorities, including loyalty to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, and other recognized traditional rulers in the state. Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide urged security agencies, government authorities, and the public to disregard any unauthorized use of these titles as invalid. The enforcement of this directive is deemed necessary to preserve cultural order and prevent potential inter-communal tensions.

In addition to the cultural directive, the group announced the commencement of a statewide civic mobilization campaign aimed at increasing participation in the ongoing voter registration exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission. They appealed to all eligible Igbo residents aged 18 and above to register and update their details to ensure full participation in the electoral process. George Igbokwe, the state legal adviser, noted that the decision to proscribe these titles was partly influenced by incidents involving individuals assuming different titles in South Africa.

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The resolution reaffirms cooperation with Edo State’s established traditional authority, including loyalty to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, and other recognised traditional rulers across Edo North and Edo Central senatorial districts.