The Idoma Area Traditional Council (IATC) has refuted reports suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s name was among those affected by the suspension of traditional titles in Benue State.
Background of the Controversy
The development followed speculations that Tinubu, along with other notable personalities, had been stripped of a traditional honour during the recent clampdown on chieftaincy conferments across Idoma land.
However, in a statement on Tuesday, Adegbe Uloko, Secretary to His Royal Majesty, Agaba-Idu (Dr) Elaigwu Odogbo John, clarified that the President’s name was never listed in submissions from the Igede Traditional Council.
“No Mention of Tinubu or SGF”
Uloko, in his official communication titled “No chieftaincy title of the President or SGF was nullified by IATC”, explained that the directive issued on August 19, and reinforced on September 2, was a sweeping suspension of all pending titles.
“At no time did the list submitted to the Idoma Area Traditional Council contain the name of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or that of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation,” he said.
Upholding Idoma Heritage
The IATC stressed that the measure was designed to preserve the dignity of traditional leadership, prevent politicisation of titles, and maintain order in cultural practices.
It further emphasised that the move was not personal but an administrative decision to safeguard the throne from potential abuse.
Cultural Sensitivity in Nigeria
The issue highlights the sensitivity surrounding traditional titles in Nigeria, where the conferment on political leaders often sparks debates about cultural integrity and political patronage.
By publicly clearing Tinubu and the SGF of any involvement, the council aims to protect the image of the presidency while strengthening its authority over traditional institutions in Benue.
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