Nigerian Traditional Rulers Demand Constitutional Powers to Combat Rising Insecurity
Traditional rulers from Nigeria’s Urhobo region have intensified calls for constitutional recognition, arguing that formally integrating the country’s ancient monarchical institutions into governance structures would significantly enhance national security efforts.
The Grassroots Security Argument
Speaking at the coronation of HRM Albert Akpomudje as the 14th Ohworode of ancient Olomu Kingdom, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, HRM King Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, Urhie I, articulated the pressing need for defined constitutional powers for traditional rulers.
“The governor is in Asaba, but I am in my kingdom,” King Whiskey told journalists, highlighting the proximity of traditional rulers to local communities. “We have 774 local government areas in Nigeria. If there is peace in these LGAs, traditional rulers make it possible.”
The monarch emphasized that traditional institutions represent the closest tier of authority to ordinary Nigerians, positioning them uniquely to address security challenges at their roots.
A Landmark Coronation with National Implications
The installation ceremony of HRM Albert Akpomudje, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Vice Chairman of the Body of Benchers, brought together legal luminaries, religious leaders, and traditional rulers, creating a platform for this significant political statement.
King Whiskey described the new monarch as “a man chosen by culture and tradition” while applauding his professional accomplishments. “No honour is greater than this,” he stated. “We, the Urhobo traditional rulers, are proud that one of our members is such a distinguished professional.”
Religious Endorsement and Historical Significance
The Archbishop of the Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, Bishop (Dr) Cyril Odiboroghene Odutemu, noted the historical significance of HRM Akpomudje’s ascension, revealing he is the third Anglican to occupy the ancient throne.
“This is an opportunity not just for him personally, but for the Anglican Church and the learned class to support the advancement of the kingdom,” the Archbishop stated, expressing confidence that the new monarch’s reign would bring greater progress to the region.
Balancing Traditional Authority and Professional Practice
In a revealing interview, the newly crowned Ohworode addressed questions about his legal career, clarifying that no Nigerian law prevents traditional rulers from practicing law.
“No law prevents me from going to court as a king, and I stand to be corrected,” HRM Akpomudje explained. “However, considering the dignity associated with the office of the Ohworode, it may be difficult for me to practise as actively as before.”
The monarch indicated he might seek special permission from the Bar Council to appear selectively in high-profile cases at appellate levels, demonstrating the complex intersection of traditional authority and modern professional practice.
The Broader Context of Traditional Governance in Nigeria
The Urhobo monarchs’ demands reflect a growing national conversation about the role of traditional institutions in Nigeria’s democratic framework. While these rulers maintain significant cultural influence and community respect, their legal authority remains largely undefined in the Nigerian constitution.
Security experts have increasingly pointed to the strategic importance of local knowledge and community trust in combating insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges plaguing various regions of Africa’s most populous nation.
The presence of numerous legal professionals, including Senior Advocates of Nigeria, retired judges, and bar association leaders at the coronation underscored the legal community’s engagement with these traditional institutions.
This report is based on original coverage from Nigerian Tribune.