“As part of the enforcement measures, Presidents-General of town unions, community leaders, and residents have been directed to report any unauthorized traditional ruler or claimant to the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs as well as the Ministry of Justice for immediate action”
The Anambra State Government has commenced a firm crackdown on individuals allegedly parading themselves as traditional rulers without official recognition, warning that anyone found violating the state’s traditional institution laws will face arrest and prosecution.
The directive, issued through the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr. Ifeanyi Ezeaka, follows the state government’s determination to protect the integrity and sanctity of the traditional institution across Anambra State.
According to the government, the enforcement is backed by the Traditional Rulers Law of Anambra State, 2007, which provides that only individuals formally recognized and approved by the Governor of Anambra State are legally entitled to occupy the position of a traditional ruler.
The government emphasized that it is a criminal offence for any individual to parade himself as a monarch, assume royal titles reserved for recognized traditional rulers, or perform royal functions and ceremonies without official approval. Offenders, it warned, risk prosecution and possible imprisonment under the law.
As part of the enforcement measures, Presidents-General of town unions, community leaders, and residents have been directed to report any unauthorized traditional ruler or claimant to the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs as well as the Ministry of Justice for immediate action.
The Soludo administration said the exercise is aimed at preserving order, strengthening the credibility of traditional institutions, and preventing the emergence of parallel or illegal royal authorities capable of undermining peace and community governance.
The government urged all communities to comply fully with the law and refrain from recognizing or supporting individuals who lack official approval as traditional rulers.
Editor’s Note: The Anambra State Government’s action underscores its commitment to safeguarding the legitimacy of traditional institutions. While communities retain their customs and heritage, the government insists that legal recognition remains the only valid path to occupying the throne under the state’s laws.
