By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The opinion canvassed in the referenced write-up, though noted, is deeply subjective and fails to reflect the true historical, cultural, and institutional standing of Ndi Eze Igbuzo within the Igbuzo traditional hierarchy.
It is both unfair and misleading for any individual or group to equate the Obiship (Ndi Eze Igbuzo) with palace chiefs or Obuzor-in-Council appointees. Ndi Eze Igbuzo are the highest traditional title holders in Igbuzo, and their status is neither local in the derogatory sense nor inferior to any palace-appointed office.
For the avoidance of doubt, no individual can become the Obuzor of Igbuzo without first taking the Eze title and becoming a member of Ndi Eze Igbuzo. This alone underscores the centrality and primacy of Ndi Eze Igbuzo in the traditional governance structure of Igbuzo. To suggest otherwise is to distort well-established tradition.
While Obuzor-in-Council chiefs play administrative and advisory roles, it must be clearly stated that they are appointees of the Obuzor, not holders of titles backed by the collective traditional authority of Igbuzo.
Their positions, important as they may be, do not derive from the same ancestral and institutional roots as the Obiship.
The argument that Ndi Eze Igbuzo is merely “local” and anchored solely on culture misses the essence of tradition itself. Culture is not diminished by evolution, nor is tradition weakened by modernization. On the contrary, traditions that refuse to adapt risk extinction. The globalization and modernization of the Obiship is not an attempt to replace kingship or traditional rulership, but a conscious effort to preserve, elevate, and project Igbuzo’s heritage in a rapidly changing world.
It is therefore appropriate to commend Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I for embracing a forward-looking approach that situates the Obiship within a broader contemporary context. Modernizing traditional institutions does not erase their roots; it strengthens their relevance and ensures continuity for future generations.
The claim that Obiship has “no place” in global recognition because it does not confer kingship is a narrow interpretation of global relevance. Global visibility is not reserved only for kings and paramount rulers; cultural institutions, honorary titles, and traditional bodies across the world gain recognition through identity, history, and organized engagement.
Ndi Eze Igbuzo have, from time immemorial, maintained internal structures, including their associations both within and outside Igbuzo, to manage their affairs. This is not a deviation from tradition, but a reflection of growth and organization.
In conclusion, tradition and progress are not adversaries. The Obiship remains a foundational pillar of Igbuzo’s identity, deserving of respect, clarity, and truthful representation. Any narrative that diminishes its status or wrongly elevates appointed offices above ancestral institutions does a disservice to history and to Igbuzo as a people.