The traditional rulers include Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe; the Traditional Ruler of Nnewi, Kenneth Orizu, both from Anambra, and Samuel Asadu, the Enugu State Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council.
They made this call when the producer, directors, and crew of the new Nollywood movie, "Properties of the Gods", visited their palaces on Wednesday.
They described the Osu caste system as unfair and not in line with human equality. They said the visit aimed to get their blessings before the movie's premiere across Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the film, produced by popular Nollywood actor Joseph Okechukwu, talks about the Osu caste system and its impact on people in Igboland.
The movie is set to hit cinemas nationwide on 4 September.
While welcoming the team at his palace, Mr Achebe said ignorance fuels many outdated beliefs that continue despite modern knowledge. He said all humans are equal before God and no one should treat others as inferior.
"Ignorance drives superstition, which should not exist in the 21st century.
"All human beings are equal in the eyes of God, who created us all. Whether you are black, yellow, or white, tall or short, man or woman, we are all made in His image," he stated.
The traditional ruler called the Osu caste system a "disgrace" and urged communities where it still exists to put an end to it, saying, "This discrimination must end forever".
He noted that with more knowledge and education, society has overcome many superstitions. He believes the same approach should be used to address the Osu practice.
Mr Achebe said laws alone might not be enough to get rid of the Osu system. He stressed the need for community mobilization and a shift in people's thinking.
He pointed out that Onitsha does not practice the Osu system in the usual way, explaining that the traditional institution has a different view of the term.
He said removing discriminatory practices needs continuous advocacy and acceptance by society.
Also speaking, Mr Orizu, who talked to the visitors through the Crown Prince of Nnewi, Obi Orizu, recalled the traditional institution's choice to abolish the Osu system.
He mentioned that this decision came from the question of why some people should live in oppression, missing out on freedom and chances to succeed.
"On his own, and after discussions with traditional leaders, he decided to end the system.
"The ban was important because right after it was announced, he faced challenges," Mr Orizu said.
He added that this decision has been beneficial and should inspire other communities.
"We cannot claim our ancestors were enslaved and then turn around and enslave others. That would be contradictory," he stated.
The Chairman of the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, Samuel Asadu, supported the movie, calling it a timely and welcome development.
Philanthropist and media figure, Emmanuel Oko, known as Okwuluora Ndigbo, said the Osu issue is one of the problems holding back the progress and unity of the Igbo people.
Mr Oko praised the filmmakers for using cinema to change people's views and promote togetherness.
"I come from Nkanu, where the practice is worse. People still tell me to avoid those they call Osu. Yet, some of my greatest supporters in Enugu are those called Osu. I still don’t understand it," he shared.
He urged everyone, especially in areas where the practice is strong, to watch "Properties of the Gods" and back the fight against discrimination.
Earlier, Mr Okechukwu, the movie's producer, said the team visited the traditional rulers to ask for their blessings before the film's release.
Mr Okechukwu noted that the movie was not made to stir conflict or attack anyone, but to encourage discussion on why Igbo people should unite.
"Our goal is to lead conversations to a point where our people can see that it is time to embrace one another instead of tearing each other apart," he said.
He added that the views shared by the royal fathers highlight the importance of other traditional rulers in the South-east accepting inclusion.
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