Uzodimma Canvasses Constitutional Backing For Traditional Rulers’ Roles
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Uzodimma Canvasses Constitutional Backing For Traditional Rulers’ Roles
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has advocated for the constitutional recognition of traditional rulers’ roles to enhance the institution’s capacity to address its diverse responsibilities.
He emphasized that the demand for constitutional recognition by traditional rulers is not merely a privilege, but a necessity for clarifying their existing roles in ensuring community and national stability.
Governor Uzodimma delivered a keynote address in Lagos on Monday at the meeting of the National Council of Traditional Rulers in Nigeria (NCTRN).
He remarked that the theme of the meeting, “The Traditional Institution: The Imperative of Its Inclusion in Effective and Efficient Governance in Nigeria,” is both timely and necessary, reflecting the reality that traditional rulers across the nation perform duties crucial to the stability, cohesion, and governance of communities.
He advocated for legal backing in the constitution for these responsibilities, which, while largely formal, are recognized.
He identified the lack of constitutional roles for traditional rulers as a gap that requires immediate rectification, asserting that it is time to formally acknowledge their existing roles rather than create new ones.
Governor Uzodimma described the traditional institution as uniquely positioned within the power structure, attracting distinguished individuals from politics, law, the military, and academia.
He highlighted the significant responsibilities of traditional rulers in peace mediation, conflict resolution, and as custodians of tradition and culture, suggesting they deserve greater respect through constitutional recognition.
However, he urged traditional rulers to maintain non-partisanship to preserve their integrity, particularly in political matters.
Drawing comparisons to their roles during the First Republic and those in certain African countries, Governor Uzodimma fully endorsed their pursuit of a more defined constitutional role.
He assured his support for this initiative should it be presented before the National Assembly or require backing at any governmental level, promising unwavering commitment.
He praised the traditional rulers for their substantial turnout from various parts of the country, asserting that the institution they represent is vibrant, strong, and ready to lead where necessary.
