The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has announced a ban on the crowning of an “Eze Ndigbo”, or King of the Igbo, outside Nigeria.

The decision was made during the group’s Imeobi and General Assembly meeting in Enugu.

The move follows growing concern over similar titles being conferred in the diaspora, including a recent controversy in South Africa’s (SA) Eastern Cape province, where the selection of an Eze Ndigbo sparked public backlash.

President of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo SA, ABC Okokoh, says such titles are not meant to represent traditional kingship outside Nigeria.

He explains that while Igbo communities abroad often organise cultural events to preserve their heritage, any titles given during these gatherings are symbolic.

“Ohanaeze does not support anything illegal, we do not crown or install a king outside our homeland,” he says.

Okokoh adds that what took place in SA was a ceremonial observance rather than the installation of a recognised traditional ruler.

–ChannelAfrica–