Obasanjo Laments: Criminals and Drug Addicts Now Becoming Traditional Rulers

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed serious concerns over the growing infiltration of Nigeria’s traditional institutions by individuals with criminal backgrounds, including drug addicts, bandits, and kidnappers.

Obasanjo made this statement in his newly released book, Nigeria: Past and Future, where he criticized the selection process of traditional rulers. He lamented that many of those ascending to royal thrones today lack the training, discipline, and moral integrity that once defined these institutions.

Traditional Institutions Losing Their Honor

According to Obasanjo, the values and honor that traditional rulers once held have been eroded, leading to a leadership crisis.

“Today, there are criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits, and kidnappers as so-called traditional rulers,” he stated.

Rather than upholding culture and justice, some traditional rulers, he noted, are now engaging in acts that further destabilize the country.

Shocking Example of Electoral Malpractice

Highlighting the extent of the problem, Obasanjo recalled an instance where a traditional ruler was caught snatching a ballot box during an election.

“How do we account for a traditional ruler snatching a ballot box at a polling station and running away with it?” he questioned.

He contrasted today’s situation with the past when traditional rulers were highly respected, particularly during the colonial and early post-independence eras.

Urgent Need for Reform

Calling for immediate action, Obasanjo stressed the importance of restoring dignity and credibility to Nigeria’s traditional institutions.

“The dignity, aura, and respect that once defined traditional rulers should be restored. They should be assets to Nigeria’s development, not liabilities,” he emphasized.

He also called for moral rejuvenation, particularly among rulers of historic significance, insisting that if properly repositioned, they could contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s progress.

“There is a need for moral re-armament among traditional rulers—the ancient and historic ones. They must play a key role in building a Nigeria that works for all,” he added.

With traditional leadership at risk of losing its essence, Obasanjo’s words serve as a wake-up call. Will the government and relevant authorities take action to ensure that only credible individuals ascend to these sacred positions? Time will tell.