Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep concern over the infiltration of Nigeria’s traditional leadership by criminals, drug addicts, and kidnappers
In his newly released book, Nigeria: Past and Future, unveiled last week, Obasanjo criticized the deteriorating selection processes for traditional rulers, lamenting that individuals without moral standing or proper training now occupy royal thrones.
“Today, there are criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits, and kidnappers as so-called traditional rulers,” he stated.
He pointed to the collapse of the traditional apprenticeship and leadership grooming systems that once upheld the honor and dignity of monarchs, blaming this decline for Nigeria’s ongoing socio-political challenges.
Obasanjo recalled a disturbing example of a monarch caught snatching a ballot box during elections, questioning how such figures could serve as cultural custodians.
“This is a great pity, and it has greatly contributed to the problems of Nigeria. How do we account for a traditional ruler snatching a ballot box at an election polling station and running away with it?” he queried.
The former president reflected on the past, highlighting how traditional rulers once commanded respect and acted as pillars of justice and development.
He noted that the honor associated with the institution during colonial and early post-independence eras has been “diluted and polluted.”
Calling for urgent reforms, Obasanjo stressed that traditional rulers should regain their lost dignity and play pivotal roles in national progress rather than becoming liabilities.
“That dignity, aura, and respect should be brought back, and traditional rulers should be an asset to Nigeria’s development and greatness — not a burden,” he declared.
He further advocated for moral rejuvenation among Nigeria’s traditional leaders, especially those from historic lineages, urging them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
“There is a need for moral re-armament among the traditional rulers — the ancient and historic ones. And they can and should make meaningful contributions to the Nigeria of our dreams that will serve the purpose and interest of all.”
(Source: Vanguard)
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