I have been following the discussions and reactions surrounding the South East Council of Traditional Rulers (SECTR) resolution of January 28, 2025, with great interest. As an Igbo son with royal heritage, I believe it’s important for me to contribute to this debate in order to help resolve this critical issue that has created division among our people. To bring a peaceful end to the recurring conflict between Eze Odinala (traditional kings in Igboland) and Eze Abroad (traditional leaders outside Igboland), I will present an analysis from various perspectives, allowing readers to form their own conclusions as we all look forward to a peaceful outcome.
The term Eze is defined by Wikipedia as the Igbo word for “king.” Other titles such as Igwe and Obi are used in different dialects within the Igbo culture to show respect for the Eze. A king is a monarch who rules over a specific territory or kingdom. Therefore, a king’s title is always tied to a land they rule over, meaning someone without a territory cannot be considered a legitimate king in the traditional sense. In Igbo culture, the Eze is an absolute monarch, advised by a council of chiefs or elders selected based on their standing in the community.
In the SECTR resolution, while the role of the Eze Abroad was acknowledged and praised, the council expressed disapproval of using the title Eze outside Igboland. They outlined five main reasons this practice is inappropriate.
Two ancient Chinese proverbs come to mind as I reflect on this tussle: “There can be no peace without war” and “Innovation is often a result of conflict”. I believe it is time for innovation and a lasting solution to bring peace between those in Igboland and those abroad.
Although the Ezes Abroad have not officially accepted or rejected SECTR’s resolution, this uncertainty must be resolved soon. My concern is that the Ezes Abroad are highly divided, with many factions, particularly in Lagos State.
Let me focus on Lagos, where I reside, as it has the highest concentration of Igbo people outside Igboland. Igbos also make up the second-largest ethnic group in every city or community, after the indigenous population. If we can find a solution in Lagos, it could serve as a model for other regions and countries, promoting peaceful coexistence for Igbos globally.
Therefore, the Ezes in Lagos need to take immediate action:
1. The rampant and unregulated installation of Ezes without any clear guidelines is a major issue in Lagos.
2. The Ezes in Lagos should merge their various factions and come together as a unified body. This will be the best way to address and resolve the matter holistically.
3. The President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos should convene a meeting with the Ezes and create a committee to work on resolving this issue with SECTR.
4. This committee should review the list of Ezes to ensure they meet the standards and values expected by SECTR, disqualifying any individuals with questionable character.
5. Ezes abroad should refrain from further badmouthing SECTR or its members based on their state of origin.
6. Ezes abroad should forthwith stop the use of exclusive titles like “His Royal Majesty”, “His Royal Highness” and “His Imperial Majesty”.
Lagos State has the opportunity to lead the way. A delegation should be sent to meet with SECTR to clarify that the Eze Abroad are not in competition with the Eze Odinala. The title of Eze to be used abroad should be mainly for educational purposes, helping our people learn and maintain their culture and traditions outside Igboland.
The need for traditional leadership among Igbos outside Igboland cannot be overstated. I understand the issues at hand, and I know that SECTR wants to support our people abroad and help them succeed in their new environments. They are hesitant to take drastic measures, and it is crucial to understand that no respected title from Igboland should be associated with individuals of questionable character abroad. Any act of disregarding Igbo culture and tradition by showing disrespect to our esteemed custodians in Alaigbo is a grave offense that carries consequences.
The Ezes abroad should move immediately to douse this fire.
As the saying goes, a stitch in time saves nine!
Proudly Igbo !!!
Prince Ubochi C. Ubochi
JP, FICCON, MCSN
Traditional Prime Minister, Amaifeke
Imo State
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