The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has criticized the Kano State Government for actions perceived as undermining and weakening traditional institutions. In a statement released on Thursday, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, NEF’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, expressed concerns over the creation of multiple emirates in Kano, viewing it as a deliberate strategy to dilute the power and influence of traditional rulers.
Suleiman argued that the proliferation of emirates not only diminishes the authority of individual monarchs but also makes them susceptible to political manipulation. “By creating multiple emirates, the power and influence of individual traditional rulers are diluted, making it easier for politicians to control and manipulate them,” he stated.
He further highlighted the negative impact of arbitrary dethronement and replacement of high-ranking traditional rulers, suggesting that such actions weaken the legitimacy of traditional institutions. This, he said, undermines the centuries-old customs and values that form the bedrock of Nigerian society, threatening the unity and cohesion of the traditional structure.
The NEF’s statement reflects broader concerns about the systematic sidelining and disempowerment of traditional rulers through various administrative reforms. Suleiman emphasized that traditional rulers have been rendered ineffective by these changes, calling for their re-empowerment and statutory recognition.
To address these challenges and revitalize traditional institutions, NEF suggested that traditional rulers be provided with the necessary resources and authority to perform their duties effectively. Without such support, Suleiman warned, traditional rulers would struggle to address critical issues like crime and drug abuse, leaving them vulnerable to further political interference.
NEF also urged the public to remain calm and law-abiding amidst the crisis, stressing the importance of peace and harmony to avoid actions that could exacerbate the situation. “Violence and unrest will only serve to further divide the people and hinder any chance of finding a peaceful resolution to the current situation,” the statement concluded.
The call to action from NEF underscores the need for a concerted effort to restore the role and significance of traditional rulers in Nigerian society, ensuring they are adequately empowered to contribute meaningfully to governance and social stability.
