The Federal Government has initiated steps to halt the conferment of “Eze Ndigbo” titles in the diaspora, citing rising tensions within Igbo communities and growing diplomatic concerns in host countries.
The move is being coordinated in collaboration with Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the South East Council of Traditional Rulers to address the development.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the government’s position known during a recent Imeobi meeting, the highest decision-making body of Ohanaeze, held in Enugu.
She acknowledged the role of diaspora communities in preserving Igbo culture but cautioned against establishing traditional leadership structures such as “Eze Ndigbo” outside Nigeria.
According to her, the practice has led to internal divisions among diaspora groups and, in some instances, strained relations with authorities in host countries.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that while cultural identity remains important, it must be expressed in ways that align with local laws and promote social harmony.
She warned that continued installation of such titles abroad could attract negative attention to Nigeria and the global Igbo community.
Meanwhile, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Azuta Mbata, said the organisation, in conjunction with South East traditional rulers, had resolved to abolish recognition of “Eze Ndigbo” titles outside Igboland.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its support for the resolution, noting that Nigerian embassies and foreign missions would play a key role in communicating the directive.
Officials said the measure was necessary to prevent further diplomatic friction and safeguard Nigeria’s international image.
