Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep concerns over the declining integrity of Nigeria’s traditional institutions, warning that criminals, drug addicts, and other undesirable elements have infiltrated royal leadership.
In his newly released book, Nigeria: Past and Future, unveiled last week, Obasanjo lamented the rapid proliferation of unqualified traditional rulers, attributing it to the erosion of values that once upheld the dignity of these institutions.
He particularly criticized the abandonment of the traditional training and apprenticeship system, which previously ensured that royal offices were occupied by individuals of high moral standing.
“Today, there are criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits, and kidnappers as so-called traditional rulers,” Obasanjo stated.
The former president noted that instead of being custodians of culture and justice, some monarchs have engaged in conduct that further undermines the nation’s fragile system.
He referenced an instance where a traditional ruler was caught engaging in electoral malpractice.
“This is a great pity, and it has greatly contributed to the problems of Nigeria by traditional rulers. How do we account for a traditional ruler snatching a ballot box at an election polling station and running away with it?” he questioned.
Reflecting on the past, Obasanjo recalled a time when traditional rulers commanded widespread respect, particularly during the colonial and early post-independence eras.
However, he argued that such esteemed standards have significantly declined.
“The class of traditional rulers with their distinction, honour and dignity, as we knew them in the colonial days and early post-independence days, has been diluted and polluted,” he noted.
Calling for urgent reforms, Obasanjo stressed the need to restore the lost prestige of traditional leadership in Nigeria. He emphasized that instead of being a burden, royal institutions should play an essential role in national development.
“That dignity, aura and respect should be brought back, and traditional rulers should be an asset to Nigeria’s development and greatness and not a liability,” he asserted.
Obasanjo further highlighted the importance of moral rejuvenation among traditional rulers, particularly those with significant historical relevance.
He maintained that if properly repositioned, these leaders could contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s long-term progress.
“There is a need for moral re-armament among the traditional rulers — the ancient and historic ones. And they can and should make meaningful contributions to the Nigeria of our dreams that will serve the purpose and interest of all,” he stated.
