Kingship Tussles in the Premillennial Era in Southeastern Nigeria: Implications on Regional Autonomous Communities between 2000 and 2017

The study examined the rising trend of Kingship (Ezeship) tussles by the fragmentation of autonomous communities between 2000 and 2016 in Imo state. It argued that Ezeship explosion has impeded development in the autonomous communities. The study covered nine autonomous communities which cut across the three geographical zones of Orlu, Owerri and Okigwe. The Marxist political economy approach was applied in this study as a theoretical guide. The survey research method was adopted using interview techniques and copies of questionnaire and it was complimented with secondary data. Findings revealed that ‘money-bag’ politics play a key role in the divide for Ezeship stool and its attendant economic and political domination in the acquisition of autonomous communities. Also, the Ezeship tussle and proliferation of autonomous communities is sustained by sectional interests, such as, governments, town unions and other stakeholders in the community. The study recommends that communities should return to the customary mode of selection and appointment of the Eze and the premium placed on the use of money to buy the throne be de-emphasized. To check the abuse and neglect of tradition, communities must adhere to their customs and constitution in determining the right person tradition favours and who the community constitution upholds.