The Anambra State Government has threatened to arrest and prosecute anyone parading himself as the traditional ruler of any community without recognition and certification.
Vincent Ezeaka, the commissioner for local government and community affairs, issued the warning in a letter addressed to presidents general of town unions on Thursday.
Mr Ezeaka said the government had received reports about persons who, without recognition, parade themselves, permit themselves to be addressed as and perform functions reserved for traditional rulers in some communities.
He said such acts were criminal offences punishable with imprisonment under the Traditional Rulers Law of Anambra.
He said only a person duly selected, appointed and formally recognised by the government in accordance with the law is entitled to function or hold himself out as the traditional ruler of a town or community.
