Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has reiterated his commitment to assigning constitutional roles to traditional rulers. This statement was made during a courtesy visit by the Royal Fathers in Ila/Boluwaduro/Ifedayo Federal constituency and some Southwest lawmakers, led by His Royal Majesty Oba (Barr) Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin.
Kalu commended traditional institutions for their significant contributions to national unity, emphasizing the need to accord them roles in the ongoing constitutional amendment process. He also acknowledged the proposal for the creation of Igbomina state, urging the delegation to ensure they fulfill all constitutional provisions required for state creation.
The Deputy Speaker highlighted the importance of traditional rulers in maintaining national unity and peace. He expressed his commitment to finding a way to recognize their roles in the Constitution, potentially at the local government, state, and national levels.
Kalu’s stance is not isolated, as there have been ongoing discussions about the need to provide constitutional roles for traditional rulers. This issue has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that traditional rulers should be shielded from politics, while others believe they can play a crucial role in promoting peace, security, and social progress.
The proposal for the creation of Igbomina state is also gaining momentum, with notable personalities from Osun, Kwara, and Ekiti states supporting the move. The delegation believes that having a state of their own will enable them to better access the dividends of democracy.
Kalu’s commitment to assigning constitutional roles to traditional rulers and the proposal for the creation of Igbomina state are significant developments in Nigeria’s political landscape. These moves have the potential to promote national unity, peace, and development.
LV