Anambra Government Disowns Bianca Ojukwu’s Chieftaincy Title, Calls It Illegal and Void

The Anambra State Government has formally distanced itself from the controversial chieftaincy title of “Anyanwu N’Awalu Ora” reportedly conferred on the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, declaring the title invalid and warning the public against recognizing it. The government’s position, announced in a strongly worded statement, has sparked widespread discussion across political, traditional, and social circles, reopening conversations about the sanctity of traditional institutions and the growing problem of unauthorized title conferments in the state.

According to the statement released by state officials, the chieftaincy title allegedly bestowed on the former First Lady of Anambra State did not follow any known or acceptable traditional process. The government stressed that the conferment lacked legitimacy because it was not approved by recognized traditional authorities, nor did it align with established customs governing the awarding of such titles in Awka or any other community within Anambra State.

At the center of the controversy is Chief Austin C. Ndigwe, identified by the state government as the individual who carried out the conferment. Officials categorically stated that Ndigwe is not a recognized traditional ruler and does not possess the authority to bestow chieftaincy titles in Awka, Ora, or anywhere else in the state. The government went further to describe him as an impostor, emphasizing that his actions were personal and entirely disconnected from the state’s traditional governance structures.

The Anambra State Government’s response was swift and unequivocal, reflecting its concern over what it described as a dangerous erosion of cultural values. Officials noted that chieftaincy titles are not mere ceremonial labels but sacred honors deeply rooted in history, community consensus, and long-standing traditions. Allowing unauthorized individuals to confer such titles, the statement warned, undermines the credibility of traditional institutions and creates confusion within communities.

Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, a respected public figure and widow of the late Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has not been accused of wrongdoing by the government. However, the state made it clear that regardless of the personality involved, any title conferred outside recognized procedures would be considered null and void. The emphasis, officials said, was not on the recipient but on preserving the integrity of Anambra’s traditional system.

Government sources explained that the legitimate conferment of chieftaincy titles in Anambra State follows a clearly defined process. This includes the involvement of the recognized traditional ruler of the community, consultation with relevant kingmakers, adherence to customary laws, and, in some cases, formal recognition by the state government. Any deviation from this process, officials reiterated, automatically strips the title of legitimacy, regardless of publicity or public perception.

The statement also urged government agencies, traditional councils, security institutions, and the general public to disregard the disputed title. By doing so, the government hopes to send a clear signal that it will not tolerate the manipulation of cultural symbols for personal or political gain. Officials stressed that failure to challenge such actions could encourage more impostors to emerge, further weakening the authority of genuine traditional rulers.

The incident has ignited fresh debate across Anambra and beyond about the commercialization and politicization of chieftaincy titles. In recent years, there has been growing concern over individuals who allegedly assume traditional roles without proper recognition, conferring titles at private events and using social media publicity to create an illusion of legitimacy. Critics argue that this trend not only disrespects tradition but also exploits the public’s limited understanding of customary protocols.

Supporters of the government’s stance have praised the administration for taking a firm position, describing the clarification as necessary and timely. They argue that without such interventions, traditional institutions risk being reduced to mere social accessories, stripped of their historical meaning and authority. Some community leaders have also called for stricter enforcement measures to deter impostors and protect communities from cultural misrepresentation.

Others, however, have expressed concern about the reputational impact of the controversy, particularly given Ambassador Ojukwu’s stature as a diplomat and public figure. They have urged all parties to handle the matter with sensitivity, ensuring that the focus remains on institutional reform rather than personal embarrassment. Still, even among these voices, there is broad agreement that traditional titles must be conferred through lawful and culturally appropriate means.

The Anambra State Government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the dignity of traditional institutions, describing them as pillars of identity, unity, and moral authority within communities. Officials noted that beyond ceremonial functions, traditional rulers play crucial roles in conflict resolution, community development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Undermining their authority, they warned, could have far-reaching consequences for social cohesion.

As reactions continue to pour in, the government’s declaration has effectively drawn a line, signaling zero tolerance for unauthorized traditional practices. Whether this episode will lead to broader reforms or stricter regulations around chieftaincy matters remains to be seen. For now, the state’s message is clear: titles not rooted in recognized tradition and lawful authority have no place in Anambra State, no matter who the recipient may be.

The controversy serves as a reminder that in a rapidly modernizing society, tradition still matters, and its guardianship requires vigilance. By disowning the disputed title and calling out what it described as an act of imposture, the Anambra State Government has positioned itself as a defender of cultural integrity, insisting that honor, like tradition itself, must be earned through due process and collective consent, not personal proclamation.