Kwara monarch demands constitutional roles for traditional rulers
A monarch in Kwara State, Olusin of Isanlu Isin, Oba Solomon Olugbenga Oloyede, has demanded for the provision of traditional roles in the 1999 Constitution for traditional rulers in the country.
The monarch, according to Leadership, urged the federal government to empower traditional rulers constitutionally so that they can carry out specific roles meant for the development of the society.
Oba Oloyede, who is the chairman, Isin local government traditional rulers’ council, said that, “As long as there’s peace in grassroots areas, there will be peace in the state capitals and other Nigerian cities.”
The issues listed to be under traditional rulers, include family matters, marriage, divorce and land matters, adding, should be allowed to be handled by the traditional rulers instead of approaching the courts.
“That was the situation even during the colonial regimes. Even in matters concerning religion. Traditional rulers were consulted on such issues before formulating policies.
“Traditional rulers are in the grassroots. We’re the ones God is using to curb security challenges in our different localities. As long as there’s peace in grassroots areas, there will be peace in the state capitals and cities,” he added.
The monarch hailed the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for equipping health facilities, constructing and renovating schools, payment of workers’ salaries, and promotion of traditional rulers’ welfare in the Isanlu Isin community.
He called the attention of the State Government to some untarred roads in the state, urging him to help address the issue in order to encourage agricultural practice, tourism and improve socio-economic status of the area and the state in particular.
While commenting on the development, the monarch reasoned that his reign has informed infrastructural development and growth in the community since he was installed in 2009.
He also charged the political leader in the country, especially in the Yoruba speaking communities to give room for peace after the outcome of the 2023 general elections.