President Buhari promises traditional rulers more support

President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated his administration’s commitment towards strengthening cooperation with traditional rulers and institutions across the country in tackling insecurity and divisive tendencies.

He said many of the wars waged against insecurity in the country have been successful because of the support and active involvement of traditional rulers and their institutions.

Speaking at the 10th National Development Summit of traditional rulers in Abuja, on Wednesday, the President who was represented by Vice President Yemi Osibanjo said as custodians of highest values and morals in the society traditional institutions are instrumental in the development strides of the country.

“If Nigeria’s greatness is to be achieved, we as a government constitutionally saddled with the maintenance of peace must deepen our partnership and dependency on traditional rulers,” he said.

He said dialogue and engagement are just as crucial as law enforcement in conflict resolution, and the non cohesive conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms embodied by the traditional institutions cannot be replaced.

He emphasised that “Demonstrable hard work and diligence as the only qualification for honour or reward, the principle of corporate and personal integrity and abhorrence of corruption, respect for laws and duly constituted authority” are principles the monarchs must strive to protect in their communities.

He reiterated the commitment of this administration to continue to deepen cooperation with the traditional rulers and their agents to consolidate on achievements in the area of peace and security.

Also at the summit, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abe1, who doubles as the Chairman Governing Summit Council, wants traditional rulers to be involved in sensitising subjects about their civic responsibilities.

“We have to admit that traditional rulers have not done their best in giving civic education to their communities.

“We must enlighten our subjects to vote responsibly during elections, we need leaders that will promote peace not chaos,” he said.

He added that it is disheartening that resolutions from all recent national conferences have not been adopted, albeit the huge finance that was expended on them.