Rising tension between traditional rulers and governors

I am compelled to speak out on the recent worrisome trend of frosty relationships between Northern governors and traditional rulers due to the perceived vast implications and consequences. This is a matter that requires urgent attention and decisive action from Northern stakeholders and elders. I have been observant, and with keen interest, concerns of the Northern […]

I am compelled to speak out on the recent worrisome trend of frosty relationships between Northern governors and traditional rulers due to the perceived vast implications and consequences. This is a matter that requires urgent attention and decisive action from Northern stakeholders and elders.

I have been observant, and with keen interest, concerns of the Northern populace, especially North West, regarding the sad development. It is now clear and without doubt that there exists a wide vacuum of lack of understanding and synergy between the two vital institutions which has now created a huge vacuum in the leadership and governance of the region.

Communal conflicts and other insecurity menaces are presently on the increase. It is, therefore, necessary for us to collectively address this unpleasant trajectory, restore the past good time and allow peace and harmony to continue to flourish again.

The role of traditional rulers in our society is pivotal to all aspects of peace and development. In addition to being the bridge between elected leaders and the electorate through provision of feedback as regards government policies and plans, they are the custodians of our cultures and traditions. They also play a crucial role in maintaining social harmony, resolving disputes and promoting development at the grassroots. The governors on the other hand are elected officials responsible for providing leadership at the state level. They are the ones in charge of states’ funds and security. The two, therefore, are to work hand-in-hand for peace and development to continue to rain in a state.

Regrettably, however, the relationship between the two vital institutions is glaringly deteriorating, with governors taking drastic and/or even harsh measures on the traditional institution. The traditional rulers are being accused by the governors of failure to adhere to the doctrine of neutrality in their dealings, especially during elections. This, as accepted by many, was what led to a breakdown in the mutual trust and understanding, resulting in show of force and litigations. I have the belief that, with a sense of patriotism and in the interest of peace, this can be resolved through consultation, dialogue and mediation.

Other areas worth looking into are that of the need for our states and National Assembly representatives to revisit the traditional institution’s role in leadership, hence the need for constitutional role in governance. We must also ensure that governors are more inclusive in their decision-making processes, seeking the input and advice of the public through public hearings, town hall meetings, etc.

To achieve this, I would like to propose for, in addition to the existing Traditional Rulers Councils, the establishment of more platforms for regular interaction between governors and traditional rulers. More common boundary platforms would, without doubt, serve as a preventive measure to situations such as the present predicament.

Furthermore, I call on governors to desist from actions associated with abuse of power and respect the rights and privileges of our legally established institutions, with special consideration for the traditional intuition.

In conclusion, I urge governors and Northern leaders and stakeholders, for the sake of future generations, to join hands in resolving this and lots of other challenges presently retarding the North so as to create a peaceful society where governance is participatory, inclusive and transparent.

 

Abdullahi Ahmad Wakili (Wakilin Jama’a) was the 2023 Kaduna Zone 1 senatorial candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP)