Redefining the Leadership Institutions in Igbo Society

Abstract

Several leadership institutions abound in Igbo traditional society. These leadership institutions are not without benefits and perhaps challenges. The aim of this study is to evaluate the leadership institutions and the ways they could fill the administration gap in the modern institution. Using the transformational theory of leadership, the study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. The study found that traditional leadership institutions such as the traditional rulers (or community chiefs or Igwe), council of elders, Onyishi traditional institution, Umuada and age grades are very much active in the administrative roles they play. They have such benefits like enhancement of socio-economic life, maintenance of law and order, settlement of disputes, construction and maintenance of roads and markets, custodian of truth, equity and justice. The study found that some religious beliefs, greed and corruption are some of the challenges visible in the Igbo leadership institutions. The study recommended that the leadership administration in Igbo society should be redefined in such a way that any traditional leaders or title holders found guilty of greed and corruption should be relieved from their offices, and finally any obnoxious cultural practices should be abolished.