By Bridget Uju Nwoye
Dr. Magnus Eze, Special Assistant on Communication and New Media to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, the government disclosed that concrete steps are being taken to halt the development. These efforts are being coordinated in collaboration with Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the South East Council of Traditional Rulers.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, 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 that Igbo communities in the diaspora often organize cultural activities to preserve their heritage, but cautioned that establishing traditional leadership structures such as “Eze Ndigbo” outside Nigeria has become problematic.
According to her, such actions have triggered internal divisions among diaspora groups and, in some cases, strained relations with authorities in host countries.
The minister emphasized that while cultural identity remains important, it must be expressed in ways that do not conflict with local laws or disrupt social harmony.
She warned that the continued installation of such titles abroad risks attracting negative attention to both Nigeria and the global Igbo communities.
Meanwhile, Azuta Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, announced that the organization has resolved alongside South East traditional rulers to abolish the recognition of “Eze Ndigbo” titles outside Igboland.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting this resolution, noting that Nigerian embassies and foreign missions will play a key role in disseminating the directive. Officials say the move is necessary to prevent further diplomatic friction and maintain Nigeria’s image internationally.
Bridget is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
