In a disheartening development that has become all too familiar, the political machinations in Kano State have once again cast a pall over the revered traditional institution not just in that state but also in the region.
The reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as the Emir of Kano by Governor Abba Yusuf, coupled with the deposition of five other emirs appointed by the previous administration, serve as a reminder of the precarious position traditional rulers find themselves in when caught in the crosshairs of partisan politics.
This unfortunate saga is not an isolated incident; it is symptomatic of a disturbing trend that has plagued various states across the nation.
We recall that former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello deposed a first-class traditional ruler, the Ohimege Igu, Konto-Nkarfe, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isa Koto.
We also recall that in 2022,barely 24 hours after taking over as the governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke dethroned three traditional rulers appointed by his predecessor, Adegboyega Oyetola.
From Kogi to Osun, and now Kano, we have witnessed traditional rulers being unseated and banished at the whims of incoming administrations, often as retribution for perceived allegiances or as a means to consolidate power.
In the considered opinion of this newspaper, this flagrant politicisation of traditional institutions not only undermines their sanctity but also erodes the very fabric of the nation’s cultural heritage.
The traditional institutions are meant to be custodians of Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry, embodying the values, customs, and wisdom that have been passed down through generations.
These institutions command respect and reverence not only within their respective communities but also across the nation.
However, when they become mere pawns in the political chess games of those in power, their credibility and authority are diminished, and the trust bestowed upon them by their subjects is jeopardized.
It is imperative that we insulate our traditional institutions from the vagaries of partisan politics. The practice of governors arbitrarily sacking and reinstating traditional rulers based on political expediency must be condemned in the strongest terms.
Such actions not only undermine the integrity of these institutions but also sow seeds of discord and instability within communities that have long relied on the wisdom and guidance of their traditional leaders.
While it is true that traditional rulers should steer clear of partisan politics and maintain a neutral stance, their role as custodians of cultural heritage and facilitators of peace and harmony within their communities should be sacrosanct.
They should be allowed to fulfill their responsibilities without fear of retribution or undue interference from political actors.
It is worth noting that there are legitimate grounds for the removal of traditional rulers, such as involvement in criminal activities, insubordination, or gross misconduct that threatens the well-being of their communities.
In such cases, due process must be followed, and the decision should be based on substantiated evidence and governed by established legal frameworks, not political whims.
The cases in Sokoto, where the Governor dethroned 15 district heads over alleged insubordination, land racketeering, and aiding insecurity as well as the suspension of a traditional ruler in Oyo State for alleged links to illegal miners, are examples of justifiable actions taken to uphold the integrity of traditional institutions and protect the interests of the people they serve.
However, the current situation in Kano, where the reinstatement of one emir and the deposition of others appear to be driven solely by political considerations, is a stark contrast to these principled actions.
It undermines the sanctity of these institutions and breeds further division and resentment within communities already grappling with the challenges of insecurity and socio-economic upheaval.
It is time for the nation to recognize the invaluable role that traditional institutions can play in fostering unity, preserving our cultural heritage, and addressing the pressing issues that plague the country.
These institutions, when respected and empowered, can be powerful allies in the fight against insecurity, serving as conduits for dialogue, conflict resolution, and community mobilization.
To this end, it is imperative that we enshrine stronger protections for traditional institutions within our legal and constitutional frameworks.
We must establish clear guidelines and processes for the appointment, tenure, and removal of traditional rulers, insulating them from the whims of political actors and ensuring that their roles are defined by the interests of their communities, not partisan agenda.
Furthermore, we must encourage traditional institutions to embrace their rightful role as custodians of cultural heritage and facilitators of peace and harmony, while maintaining a respectful distance from partisan politics.
This delicate balance can be achieved through sustained education, dialogue, and the fostering of a culture of respect for these time-honored institutions.
As we navigate the complexities of our nation’s political landscape, let us not lose sight of the immense value and significance of our traditional institutions. They are not mere relics of the past but living embodiments of our collective identity, repositories of wisdom, and catalysts for unity in the face of adversity.
By preserving their sanctity and insulating them from the corrosive influence of partisan politics, we can ensure that these institutions continue to serve as beacons of hope and stability for generations to come.
