The Nri culture is believed to stretch back to at least the 13th century, with a traditional foundation by Eri dated 948.
The 15th recorded Eze Nri, Òbalíke, was deposed by the British administration in favour of the "warrant chief" system, but the title continued to be held; the current Eze Nri, Ènweleána II Obidiegwu Onyeso, was instated in 1988.
The eze Nri was chosen by the Nze and Nzemabua (state leadership) and had to be recognized by the general public.
After this, must travel to Aguleri to obtain a lump of clay from the bottom of Omambalathe Anambra River.
During this time, the priests of the eze Nri waited for someone to manifest the signs indicating they were the next priest-king.