The Afenifere Renewal Group, ARG, has expressed support for the stand of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, against the continued existence of the Eze Ndigbo title by South-easterners residing in the town, the capital of Ondo State, Nigeria.

The Yoruba organisation on Thursday described the Eze Ndigbo title as unsubstantial adding that the stand of the Akure monarch would help to put the South-west and its culture on a pedestal.

The ARG said this act by the Deji of Akure would go down in the history of Yoruba nation and amongst other nationalities as noble and needful.

According to the organisation, “contrary to what many particularly the mischief makers have been saying, this move has the potential to strengthen inter-ethnic relationship as it eliminates the friction points amongst nationalities, be it in Yorubaland or elsewhere.

“There is no gainsaying that the structure of Eze Ndigbo outside Igboland is deployed towards an expansionist end, with possible occupational intent.

“It is our conviction that the Igbo community in Yorubaland does not need to have a king, since by Yoruba custom, two kings cannot coexist in a domain.

“Yorubaland, from time immemorial, welcomes and encourages trade associations and development unions and their activities are supported by Yoruba people who are ever tolerant of settlers amongst them.

“We therefore want to reiterate our proposition to the heads of executive governments in Yorubaland and other traditional rulers that the title of Eze Ndigbo, or any other monarchical title that is alien to Yoruba customs, be scrapped in all Southwest states.”