ABUJA: The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has convened a significant meeting with the National Council of Traditional Rulers in Abuja to discuss the inclusion of traditional rulers in the country’s governance framework. The meeting, held at the State House conference center, focused on the potential constitutional roles for royal fathers.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the meeting concluded with the establishment of a committee led by Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, to further explore the issue. Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, shared that the meeting’s agenda included a review of a bill currently before the National Assembly. The bill aims to define the constitutional role of traditional rulers in Nigeria. The Etsu of Nupe provided a summary of the proposed bill, which was well received by both governors and traditional leaders present.
The joint meeting decided to circulate the proposed bill among attendees and set up a committee composed of both governors and traditional rulers. This committee will ensure
that feedback and remarks from the meeting are included, creating a comprehensive and inclusive document for presentation to the National Assembly. The aim is to empower traditional rulers and involve them in governance, peace, and security across Nigeria.
Governor Abiodun emphasized the crucial role traditional rulers can play in enhancing security and peaceful coexistence. He noted that traditional leaders, being close to the grassroots, possess valuable knowledge of their communities. Their involvement in community policing and intelligence gathering would significantly aid law enforcement efforts.
Representing the National Council of Traditional Rulers, the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, expressed gratitude for the governors’ support and elaborated on the proposed bill. He highlighted the importance of delineating the structure and function of traditional institutions and stressed the need for adequate funding. The bill also seeks to prevent traditional rulers from engaging in partisan politics.
This init
iative marks the first of its kind meeting between governors and the traditional institution, setting a precedent for future collaboration. The effort aims to leverage the expertise of traditional rulers, who often have diverse professional backgrounds, to further the nation’s development and governance.