Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed grave concern and profound agitation over recent developments in Kano where the multiplication of Emirates and dethronement and replacement of traditional rulers have sparked tension.
Gatekeepers News reports that the forum views the recent development as a clear example of the challenges faced by traditional rulers in the country.
NEF also expressed worries about the escalating crisis surrounding the Emirate of Kano state which is now the concern of the public.
It urged the state Government and the involved politicians to exercise caution in handling the issue to prevent further escalation.
The Forum’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman emphasized through a statement released to the public, the need for all parties involved to approach the matter with utmost care and professionalism.
Suleiman said, “Rash decisions and inflammatory statements can only serve to worsen the situation and jeopardise the peace and stability of the state.”
NEF also urged the public to remain calm and law-abiding in the face of the crisis, stressing that it is important that they do not engage in any actions that could potentially threaten the peace and security of the state.
Suleiman added, “violence and unrest will only serve to further divide us and hinder any chance of finding a peaceful resolution to the current situation..”
“In times of crisis, it is imperative that we come together as a community and work towards finding common ground and mutual understanding. Let us all strive to prioritise peace and harmony, and avoid actions that could lead to further discord and conflict”.
However, NEF noted that the traditional institution in Nigeria has long been facing challenges and obstacles that have significantly weakened its impact and effectiveness.
Suleiman further said that this problem seems to be particularly acute in Kano, where a power struggle has led to the creation of multiple Emirates.
He said “The multiplication and duplicity of Emirates in Kano is a clear attempt to weaken the traditional institution and undermine the authority of the traditional rulers. By creating multiple emirates, the power and influence of individual traditional rulers are diluted, making it easier for politicians to control and manipulate them.”
“Furthermore, the arbitrary dethronement and replacement of high-ranking traditional rulers in Kano not only weaken the authority and legitimacy of traditional rulers but also send a message that their role and relevance in society are easily dispensable. This move is not only threatening the unity and cohesion of the traditional structure but also undermining the centuries-old customs, values, and traditions that have been the bedrock of the Nigerian society.”
“The perpetuation of these challenges is a reflection of the wider issue of the emasculation of traditional rulers in Nigeria. Over the years, traditional rulers have been systematically sidelined and disempowered by various administrative mechanisms and so-called “reforms” that have only served to weaken their influence and render their role ineffectual”.
NEF emphasized that in order to address these challenges and reinvigorate the traditional institution in Nigeria, it is important that traditional rulers are empowered and given their deserving recognition and support.
The forum stated “This can only be achieved through a concerted effort to restore the statutory recognition of traditional rulers in the country and provide them with the necessary resources and authority to fulfill their duties effectively.”
“Without the necessary empowerment and support, traditional rulers will continue to struggle to play a meaningful role in society, particularly in addressing pressing issues such as crime and drug abuse. Their marginalisation not only diminishes their ability to effectively govern their domains but also leaves them vulnerable to political interference and manipulation.”
