Ohanaeze condemns Senate bill elevating Ooni of Ife, Sultan of Sokoto as sole traditional council leaders

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has strongly criticized a Senate bill proposing to permanently designate the Ooni of Ife and the Sultan of Sokoto as the exclusive Co-Chairmen of the Traditional Rulers Council, arguing it marginalizes other ethnic groups and regions.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Enugu, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, expressed dismay over the bill, which has already passed its second reading.

Chukwu condemned the Senate’s rationale, stating, “This bill is inequitable, discriminatory, and ethnocentric, showing a blatant disregard for fairness, equity, justice, and the Federal Character principle enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution.”

He further described the legislation as “distasteful, reprehensible, and objectionable,” arguing it undermines national unity and social justice in Nigeria’s diverse society.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged the immediate withdrawal of the bill, calling for a thorough review to ensure it reflects ethnic diversity, cultural sensitivity, and geopolitical balance. “Only through such revisions can the bill promote national unity, peaceful coexistence, and social stability,” Chukwu emphasized.