In recent developments across Nigeria, several state governors have warned traditional rulers sternly, holding them accountable for communal clashes and security challenges within their domains. These actions underscore the critical role that traditional institutions play in maintaining peace and order in their communities.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State
Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed deep concern over reports of potential conflicts in the Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun communities. He emphasized that any resurgence of violence in these areas would lead to severe consequences for the traditional rulers involved. The governor highlighted that the peace agreements previously signed were not mere formalities and that all parties would be held accountable for any breaches. He also mentioned that the relaxation of curfews was done on humanitarian grounds and warned that any exploitation of this leniency for renewed violence would result in the re-imposition of a 24-hour curfew. Governor Adeleke stated unequivocally that he would not hesitate to remove from office any traditional ruler in whose domain violence recurs, urging royal fathers to call their subjects to order.
Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State
In Kogi State, Governor Yahaya Bello has taken a firm stance against clashes between Fulani herdsmen and farmers. He warned that any traditional ruler or local government administrator in whose domain such conflicts occur would face removal from office. The governor emphasized the importance of harmonious living and stated that his administration would not enact laws prohibiting open grazing but would instead focus on inclusive policies that promote peaceful coexistence. He also instructed security agencies to reopen all cases involving herdsmen and farmers to ensure justice is served.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State has also addressed the role of traditional rulers in maintaining peace. Following deadly attacks in the Kulben and Kwatas villages, he warned that any traditional ruler unable to manage their people and prevent violence would be dethroned. The governor stressed the necessity of arresting perpetrators to ensure societal stability and charged the new chiefs to use their positions to foster peace and development.
Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State
Similarly, in Rivers State, Governor Nyesom Wike has cautioned that traditional rulers in communities where cultism and kidnapping are prevalent risk dethronement. He emphasized that communities with high incidences of such crimes would no longer receive government patronage and declared that youth groups found to be involved in cultism would be dissolved. Governor Wike underscored the collective responsibility of stakeholders to work with security agencies to combat insecurity.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State
In Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri has warned traditional rulers against supporting election violence, stating that any monarch who does so would be dethroned. He urged that political parties and their supporters be allowed to canvass for votes without molestation and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace before, during, and after elections.
These developments highlight a growing trend where state governments are holding traditional institutions accountable for the security and peace within their jurisdictions. The warnings serve as a reminder of the pivotal role that traditional rulers play in conflict prevention and resolution in their communities.
Post a Comment
0Comments