Chuma: Mazi

A prefix title that can be ascribed to any man that the father has passed on. It is a term of respect, originating from the Aro people of Igbo ethnicity in southeastern Nigeria. A son does not automatically become Mazi upon the fathers’ demise but must be responsible and of good reputation in society, married to a woman and raising children. In some cases, he must have also been initiated into the revered Ekpe society.

A sacred title, Mazi is not to be ascribed to any man that is a miscreant, has questionable wealth, been convicted, or even suspected to be a criminal.