Sultan of Sokoto, Ooni of Ife, and the Debate on Identity, Representation, and Autonomy — Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu Speaks Out,

Recent political developments have raised serious concerns among many in the South East regarding representation within Nigeria’s traditional leadership structures.

In 2025, northern political actors proposed making the Sultan of Sokoto the permanent chairman of the Northern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council. Around the same time, political figures in the South West announced the Ooni of Ife as the permanent chairman of what was termed the “Southern Traditional Rulers Council.”

This move has generated debate.

His Royal Majesty, Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu, while addressing President Tinubu and other dignitaries in Abuja, openly rejected the idea of a unified “Southern Traditional Rulers Council.” He emphasised that Ndigbo have an established South East Traditional Rulers Council and that the South East, South South, and South West are distinct geopolitical zones with different cultural systems, governance traditions, and historical identities.

According to him, there is no constitutional or historical basis for merging the South into one traditional bloc under a permanent chairman from one zone. Each geopolitical region — South East, South South, and South West — should maintain its own traditional rulers council and leadership structure.

He questioned:
If the position is permanent, why was it not rotated?
Why were respected South East monarchs such as the Obi of Onitsha, Eze Nri, Eze Aro, or Eze Eri not considered?

The concern, as expressed, is not about rivalry but about equity and identity. The South East is a recognised geopolitical zone with a unique heritage. Its traditional institutions deserve autonomous representation, just as other zones maintain theirs.

Igwe Agubuzu further warned that creating a centralised “Southern” body could open the door for political manipulation — where some traditional rulers might claim to represent the entire South while pursuing narrow interests.

The broader argument is simple:
Every geopolitical zone should manage its traditional affairs independently while cooperating where necessary. Collaboration is welcome. Subordination is not.

The call is for clarity:
There is a Northern Traditional Rulers structure.
There should be clear South East, South West, and South South councils — not an artificial merger that blurs identities.

For many observers, the timing of this development — ahead of the 2027 elections — has also raised questions about political motivations.

Ultimately, the issue is not about division. It is about structured federalism, cultural dignity, and fair representation within Nigeria’s diverse framework.

Some leaders from the South East must rise above personal gain and prioritise the collective interest of Ndigbo. Representation is a sacred responsibility, not an opportunity for individual benefit. The future of the South East cannot be negotiated for short-term advantage.