NewsNigeriaPoliticsTraditional Rulers Demand Return Of Formal Roles In Governance

Traditional rulers across Nigeria have urged the National Assembly to reinstate their constitutional roles that were stripped away in the 1999 Constitution.

According to the royal fathers, the exclusion has created a governance gap, particularly in areas of grassroots mobilization and security.

They made the appeal during the North Central Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution (Zone A), covering Niger, Kogi, and Kwara States, held in Minna, Niger State, on Saturday.

Speaking on behalf of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, chaired by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, emphasized the need for traditional institutions to be given clear constitutional recognition.

“In the past, traditional rulers were actively involved in local governance through defined administrative roles. This was especially evident from the 1920s to the 1960s when they were pivotal in managing Native Authorities and ensuring effective implementation of policies,” he said.

“Even in the 1979 Constitution, we retained some of these roles. However, the 1999 Constitution removed these provisions, effectively severing the crucial link between the government and the governed at the grassroots.”

According to the Etsu Nupe, the absence of traditional institutions in the current constitutional framework has contributed to several challenges, particularly in the areas of security, community mobilization, and policy implementation.

“We’re hopeful that this review process will restore this broken link. We have submitted our recommendations in a detailed memorandum to this Committee, advocating that traditional rulers be given defined constitutional roles in matters of religion, culture, security, justice, and related areas.”

He recommended that states be empowered to enact laws reflecting their peculiar traditional systems, and that Chairmen of State Councils of Chiefs be recognized as statutory members of the National Council of State, a practice that existed in previous constitutions until the 1999 version.

The chairman of North Central Centre A and Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rep. Ali Abdullahi Ibrahim, in his remarks assured the gathering that the committee would approach the review process with thoroughness, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Ibrahim, who represented the Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the House Constitution Review Committee, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, noted that the current exercise offers Nigerians yet another opportunity to shape a constitution that reflects the realities and aspirations of the people.

“This public hearing is designed to gather input from stakeholders across various sectors to ensure inclusive participation. The constitution has been amended five times, the most recent being in 2023. But there is still room for further improvement to strengthen national unity and ensure equity,” he stated.

He noted the importance of the review process in deepening democratic governance and addressing long-standing grievances of marginalization.

“The unity of Nigeria hinges significantly on the outcome of this exercise. We must all contribute meaningfully to ensure that the new amendments promote peace, justice, and national development. Every presenter must strive to make submissions that will move Nigeria forward,” he added.

Uzoamaka Ikezue (Staff Reporter)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

WP2Social Auto Publish Powered By : XYZScripts.com