The South East Council of Traditional Rulers has officially discontinued the use of the title “Eze” for Igbo leaders in the diaspora, replacing it with “Onye Ndu Uzo Ije” as part of efforts to preserve the sanctity of traditional kingship in Igbo land.
The decision was announced on Friday at the Eze Obi Palace in Owerri, Imo State, during the induction of 32 diaspora Igbo leaders who were issued certificates recognizing them as custodians of Igbo culture in their host communities.
Chairman of the Council, Emmanuel C. Okeke, said the move was aimed at restoring order and dignity to traditional institutions both at home and abroad.
He commended stakeholders, including Bianca Ojukwu, South-East governors, and Igbo socio-cultural groups for supporting the initiative.
Okeke also praised Lagos-based Igbo leader John-Greg Ezebuadi and his team for facilitating the gathering, noting that they would be formally recognized as cultural representatives of Ndi Igbo.
Speaking at the event, Chukwudi Ihenetu welcomed the development, describing it as a positive step that would strengthen cooperation between diaspora Igbo communities and traditional institutions in the South-East.
The event was attended by several prominent monarchs, including Lawrence Agubuzo.
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Igbo Diaspora, South East Traditional Rulers, Onye Ndu Uzo Ije, Igbo Culture, Imo State, Owerri, Traditional Institutions, Emmanuel Okeke, Chukwudi Ihenetu, Bianca Ojukwu, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Igbo Leadership, South East News, Nigerian Culture, Traditional Rulers Council.
