- The Commercialisation Of Chieftaincy, Nze, Ozo, Ichie Titles And The Erosion Of Traditional Values In Imo State.
By Nze Emmanuel Ehirim
There was a time in Igboland when being called Chief meant something. It spoke of character, achievement, community service, wisdom and an individual’s standing among his people. Similarly, Nze, Ozo, Ichie and others are being bastardized and in some extent , monetized against the originality of its formation and sanctity.
A traditional title was not merely acquired; it was earned.But what is happening today particularly across Imo State?Chieftaincy titles appear to be proliferating everywhere.
Chief. High Chief. Double Chief. Triple Chief. Yet behind the red caps, flowing traditional attire and extravagant ceremonies lies a question we seem increasingly afraid to ask: Who are these new chiefs and what have they actually done for their communities?
There is absolutely nothing wrong with traditional rulers honouring deserving sons and daughters of their communities. Recognising philanthropy, integrity, exceptional achievement and selfless community service is an important part of our cultural heritage.
But when money becomes the qualification for honour, honour becomes merchandise. We frequently hear allegations that some chieftaincy titles are effectively obtained through financial payments or donations.
If true, this should trouble every person who values the integrity of our traditional institutions.
Should a person become a Chief simply because he or she can afford the price? And what happens when individuals whose conduct, reputation or sources of wealth raise legitimate questions are decorated with prestigious traditional titles? What lesson does that teach our children—that character no longer matters once one has money?
Our traditional rulers must remember that they are custodians of our heritage, not merchants of honour.
Communities in Imo State should establish transparent criteria for traditional honours: proven character, integrity, identifiable community service and meaningful contribution to society.Money can buy cars, houses and elaborate ceremonies.
But money should never be permitted to buy honour.For when honour becomes merchandise, tradition loses its dignity, titles lose their meaning and society loses another reason for young people to believe that good character still matters.
About the Author:
Nze Emmanuel Ehirim is a corporate communication practitioner, community development advocate and social policy commentator with extensive experience in governance, leadership, social justice and sustainable development.
He writes regularly on public policy, accountability, community participation, oil and gas governance, environmental justice, education, security and socio-economic development.
He is passionate about promoting transparent leadership, equitable distribution of public resources and policies that place people at the centre of development. His commentaries advocate responsible governance, institutional accountability and inclusive partnerships between government, investors and local communities to achieve sustainable growth.
Drawing on his experience in community engagement and public service, he believes that the true measure of government is not the wealth generated from natural resources but the positive transformation of people’s lives through quality education, accessible healthcare, improved infrastructure, security, employment opportunities and social justice.
