Ohanaeze Ndigbo Rejects Senate Bill Elevating Ooni, Sultan as Sole Traditional Council Co-Chairmen

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has strongly opposed a Senate bill seeking to designate the Ooni of Ife and the Sultan of Sokoto as the exclusive Co-Chairmen of Nigeria’s Traditional Rulers Council.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Enugu, the group’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, described the bill as unfair and divisive, warning that it marginalizes other prominent traditional rulers across Nigeria’s ethnic and geopolitical landscape.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the controversial bill has already passed second reading in the Senate.

Chukwu expressed shock over the Senate’s decision to advance a bill that, according to him, disregards constitutional principles of equity, fairness, justice, and the Federal Character doctrine.

“The Senate has abdicated its duty as a representative and guardian of Nigeria’s democratic ideals,” Chukwu stated. “The bill is not only unjust and ethnically biased but also objectionable and deeply offensive. It fails to reflect the ethical standards, objective criteria, and inclusive values essential for national cohesion in a diverse country like Nigeria.”

Ohanaeze Ndigbo called for the immediate withdrawal of the bill and a thorough review that respects cultural diversity, ensures geopolitical balance, promotes inclusive governance, and guarantees equitable representation.

Chukwu emphasized that only such a balanced approach can truly foster unity, peaceful coexistence, and long-term social harmony in the country.