In this exclusive interview, High Chief Anselm Njoku, a respected traditional leader and international businessman, shares his insights on the importance of preserving Igbo customs and traditions. With his wealth of experience and knowledge, High Chief Njoku discusses the proper use of titles, the role of Ohanaeze and Igbo Speaking Community, and the significance of government recognition.
High Chief Anselm Njoku: A Champion of Igbo Traditions
High Chief Anselm Njoku is a product of traditional institution from Mbaise, Nigeria. He has received several titles, including Anatuanatu, Dike Dinamba, and Akeweje, all certified by the respective state governments.
Authentic Titles and Government Recognition
The Unique Model: High Chief Anselm Njoku, you have received several titles from various states in Nigeria. Can you explain the conditions for having authentic titles?
High Chief Anselm Njoku: I am High Chief Anselm Njoku, the Anatuanatu from Mbaise, Imo State, Dike Dinamba from Rivers State, and Akeweje from Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State. I was crowned and certified by Late Oba Ajenifuja in 2002 in Lagos State. To have authentic title one must be crowned by the Igwe, Eze, Oba or Emir depending on the ethnic group, who are HRH or HRM certificated by the state government.
The Use of His Royal Highness/Majesty
The Unique Model: What advice do you have regarding the use of His Royal Highness/Majesty by some Eze Ndigbo?
High Chief Anselm Njoku: I strongly advise against Eze Ndigbo outside Igboland using His Royal Highness/Majesty. Royalty means ownership of the land, and there can only be one royalty in a community at a particular time. Eze Ndigbo should focus on preserving Igbo customs and traditions, not claiming royalty. The conditions to use His Royal Highness are clear: one must be an indigene of the land, crowned by the rightful authorities, and certified by the state government. “It is a rape of Igbo customs and traditions as well as that of the land where we live for an Igbo Eze outside Igbo land to be addressed as HRH or HRM; it is SACRILEGIOUS and must stop”.
Ohanaeze and Igbo Speaking Community
The Unique Model: Can you elaborate on the role of Ohanaeze and Igbo Speaking Community?
High Chief Anselm Njoku: Ohanaeze is the apex social-cultural organization of Ndigbo, and all Igbo groups are under it. The primary role of Igbo Community is to ensure that Igbos living in a particular area stay together, have meetings, and ensure their welfare and protection.
Crowning Eze Ndigbo
The Unique Model: Who should crown Eze Ndigbo in Lagos State?
High Chief Anselm Njoku: Eze Ndigbo in Lagos should be crowned by Ohanaeze, following a thorough process involving Igbo Community leaders and other groups.
Conclusion
High Chief Anselm Njoku emphasizes the importance of preserving Igbo customs and traditions, respecting the rightful authorities, and avoiding unnecessary claims to royalty. His insights provide valuable guidance for Ndigbo and promote a deeper understanding of Igbo culture and traditions.