The Kebbi State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has directed all Emirate Councils, District Heads and Village Heads to suspend the conferment of traditional titles without prior approval from the ministry.
The directive was contained in a circular signed by the Deputy Director of Administration, Abubakar Mansur-Tuga, and issued in Birnin Kebbi on Saturday.
According to the circular, the decision followed complaints over the indiscriminate award of traditional titles, allegedly carried out in violation of established guidelines and regulations.
It stated that the conferment of traditional titles must uphold the integrity, dignity and long-standing traditions associated with such honours, stressing that no title should be granted under any circumstances without clearance from the ministry, in line with ongoing reforms.
The ministry also ordered the reversal of all titles conferred within the last two months without due process, directing that affected beneficiaries be informed of the withdrawal immediately.
The circular explained that the measure is aimed at restoring order and preserving the dignity of traditional institutions.
Traditional authorities were further urged to ensure that all future conferments are conducted with proper decorum and in strict compliance with the law.