The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning, revealing that individuals parading themselves as Ezendigbo face the risk of two years imprisonment.
“The title of Ezendigbo is not recognized by the state”, as disclosed by Mrs. Raulat Ibrahim, Assistant Director of the Ministry of Local Governments, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Developments.
This revelation surfaced during a trial against Eze Frederick Nwajiagu, an individual claiming the title of Ezendigbo in Ajao Estate. Mrs. Ibrahim testified that such titles must undergo a legal process governed by the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015.
She emphasized that individuals bypassing this procedure and falsely claiming chieftaincy titles risk imprisonment.
The case exposed a certificate presented by Eze Nwajiagu, signed by the President of Igbo Speaking Community, which further raises concerns for others holding similar certificates.
Mrs. Ibrahim clarified that these certificates are not issued or recognized by the Lagos State Government, making individuals susceptible to legal consequences.
The legal proceedings shed light on the meticulous process for recognizing chieftaincy titles in Lagos State.
Mrs. Ibrahim detailed the steps involved, from local government approval to clearance from the Ministry of Justice and the Governor’s final approval. Failure to adhere to this protocol results in non-recognition by the state.
The defense counsel, Chief Emefo Etubo, acknowledged the presented evidence and the potential implications of the parade. Mrs. Ibrahim affirmed that the accused Eze Nwajiagu did not follow the due process, leading to the two-year imprisonment warning.
As the trial continues, it becomes evident that none of the Ezendigbo titles in Lagos State holds recognition from the government.
The absence of administrative files for Ezendigbo at the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters, and Rural Development further emphasizes the non-recognition of these titles.
The case serves as a stark reminder to individuals claiming chieftaincy titles without proper authorization, urging adherence to legal procedures to avoid legal repercussions.
