How Drug Lords and Bandits Are Becoming Traditional Rulers in Nigeria - Obasanjo Exposes

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised alarm over the infiltration of Nigeria's traditional leadership by criminals, drug addicts, bandits, and kidnappers, warning that the revered institution is losing its dignity and moral authority.

Obasanjo made this explosive revelation in his newly released book, Nigeria: Past and Future, unveiled last week. According to the elder statesman, the rapid multiplication of traditional rulers in Nigeria, many of whom lack the required moral standing, has weakened the institution, making it a breeding ground for societal decay.

Highlighting the disturbing trend, Obasanjo cited instances where traditional rulers have engaged in disgraceful acts, including election rigging.

"This is a great pity, and it has greatly contributed to Nigeria's problems. How do we account for a traditional ruler snatching a ballot box at a polling unit and running away with it?ÔÇØ he queried.

The former president lamented that traditional rulers, once regarded as the custodians of culture and justice, are now part of the country's governance crisis due to poor selection processes that allow criminals to assume royal positions.

Reflecting on the past, Obasanjo stated that traditional rulers were once revered and commanded honor, particularly in colonial and early post-independence Nigeria. However, he believes that the quality of traditional leadership has significantly declined.

"The class of traditional rulers with their distinction, honor, and dignity, as we knew them in the colonial days and early post-independence era, has been diluted and polluted,ÔÇØ he said.

Calling for urgent reforms, Obasanjo stressed the need to restore the dignity and value of traditional rulers in Nigeria. He insisted that they should be key players in national development rather than liabilities.

"That dignity, aura, and respect should be brought back. Traditional rulers should be an asset to Nigeria's development and greatness, not a burden,ÔÇØ he declared.

He further emphasized the need for moral rejuvenation among traditional rulers, particularly those with deep historical significance, urging them to be at the forefront of national transformation.

"There is a need for moral re-armament among the traditional rulers-the ancient and historic ones. They should make meaningful contributions to the Nigeria of our dreams that will serve the purpose and interest of all,ÔÇØ he concluded.