By our Reporter
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised concerns over the declining standards in the selection of traditional rulers in Nigeria, alleging that criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits, and kidnappers have found their way into royal institutions.
In his newly released book, Obasanjo lamented the erosion of integrity within the traditional leadership structure, blaming the abandonment of the rigorous training and apprenticeship system that once upheld the dignity of royal offices. According to him, the unchecked proliferation of traditional rulers has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s socio-political challenges.
“Today, there are criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits, and kidnappers being recognized as so-called traditional rulers,” he stated.
Obasanjo criticized the moral decay among some traditional rulers, accusing them of engaging in unethical activities rather than serving as custodians of culture and justice. He cited an instance where a monarch was caught engaging in electoral malpractice.
“How do we justify a traditional ruler snatching a ballot box at an election polling station and running away with it?” he asked.
Reflecting on the past, the former president noted that traditional rulers were once held in high esteem, particularly during the colonial and early post-independence periods. However, he said, that honor and distinction have now been “diluted and polluted.”
Obasanjo called for urgent reforms to restore the lost dignity of traditional institutions, insisting that these leaders should be assets to Nigeria’s development rather than liabilities.
“That dignity, aura, and respect must be restored. Traditional rulers should contribute to Nigeria’s greatness, not add to its problems,” he declared.
He further emphasized the need for moral rejuvenation among traditional rulers, particularly those with deep historical significance, arguing that if properly repositioned, they could play a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
