Ebonyi Finance Commissioner Advocates Integrity, Moderation in Chieftaincy Title Conferment

Nkechinyere Ewa

The Commissioner for Finance in Ebonyi State, Mr. Uguru Leonard, has described the conferment of chieftaincy titles as a deep-rooted cultural heritage of the Igbo people, urging communities to uphold integrity, diligence and moderation in the selection of title holders.

Speaking during a chieftaincy conferment ceremony in Akpoha Autonomous Community, Mr. Uguru noted that the tradition of awarding titles has long been part of Igbo existence, historically reserved for hardworking, successful and worthy individuals who have positively impacted their communities.

According to him, chieftaincy titles should not be conferred arbitrarily or excessively, but should remain symbols of honour for people of proven character. He stressed that success alone should not qualify individuals for such recognition unless it is backed by honesty, diligence and transparency.

“In Igbo land, people conferred with this type of title are hardworking people of the society successful ones with good character, not people of dubious or nefarious conduct,” the commissioner said. “These titles should serve as pointers for the younger generation to follow the right path and contribute meaningfully to society.”

Mr. Uguru expressed delight at being part of the ceremony, describing the experience as emotional and fulfilling, especially witnessing individuals from Abakaliki Local Government Area being honoured by the community.

He also commended the Ebonyi State Government for its non-interference in traditional institutions, which he said has allowed communities like Akpoha to freely organize cultural activities and honour deserving sons and daughters.

The finance commissioner emphasized that while communities have the autonomy to decide whether or not to confer chieftaincy titles, there is also room for regulation to ensure the dignity of the institution is preserved.

“The community may decide whether to give chieftaincy titles or not; it is not compulsory,” he said. “However, it is important to regulate the number, based on the number of truly successful people who have contributed to the welfare of the community.”

He added that chieftaincy titles bring honourees closer to their people and place on them the responsibility of being benefactors and role models within society.

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