Abia State Government says it has observed with dismay the flagrant abuse of the appellations, “His Royal Majesty,” and “His Royal Highness” by some Ezeogos in various Autonomous Communities in the state when they are not Government recognized Traditional Rulers.
A release signed by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, says it has also been proved that these Ezeogos confer Chieftaincy titles on some citizens and friends of their various Autonomous Communities when they are not in the position to confer such Chieftaincy Titles on people.
The release further states that the Abia State of Nigeria Traditional Rulers and Autonomous Communities (Amendment) Law No. 8 of 2015, stipulates that only Government recognized Traditional Rulers have the right to confer Chieftaincy titles on persons of proven integrity and unquestionable character.
According to the release, the Traditional Institution in the state is a respectable, reputable and revered one, and should be treated as such, hence, all celebration on conferment of Chieftaincy titles on some individuals in Autonomous Communities in Arochukwu, Abriba, Nkporo and Ohafia by some Ezeogos is hereby cancelled in the interest of peace in the state.
The release warned that Security Agencies have been put on red alert to arrest and prosecute any Ezeogo or individual in any Autonomous Community who challenges this Government’s directive.
