Traditional Rulers and the Nigerian Governance Structure: Advocating for Constitutional Recognition

Abstract

Traditional rulers have historically played a significant role in Nigerian society's governance and socio-cultural fabric. However, the 1999 Nigerian Constitution does not explicitly recognize the roles of traditional rulers, leading to ambiguity in their functions and powers. The lack of constitutional recognition for traditional rulers in Nigeria is a significant issue that affects their authority, roles, and influence within the country's political and governance systems. Also, the politicization of traditional ruler-ship by state governors in the country represents a significant challenge to the integrity and effectiveness of traditional institutions. This brief examines the role of traditional rulers in the Nigerian governance structure and the need for legislative interventions. Some of these legislative interventions include:  The National Assembly may wish to amend the 1999 Constitution to explicitly recognize the role and authority of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s governance structure.  Specifically, through the ongoing constitutional review, NASS may wish to provide for the adoption of alternative dispute-resolution techniques as a role for traditional rulers.