THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL RULERS IN TACKLING INSECURITY IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF WARRI
ABSTRACT
Insecurity in Nigeria has become a pervasive and complex problem, characterised by terrorism, insurgency, banditry, communal clashes, and ethno-religious tensions. Traditional rulers have the potential to play a significant role in addressing these security challenges and promoting peace and stability. However, their contributions and the challenges they face in tackling insecurity have not been fully explored. This study aims to examine the role of traditional rulers in addressing insecurity in Nigeria, with a specific focus on the importance of their involvement in conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts. The study adopts a survey-mixed research method approach, combining questionnaires and interviews to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. The population of the study comprises traditional rulers, members of the military and Traditional Council, the people of Warri town, Delta State, and staff of SEMA and the the Red Cross Society. A sample size of 384 was drawn using simple random sampling, and data analysis was conducted manually and statistically using the SPSS tool. The findings demonstrate that traditional rulers have played a significant role in mediating conflicts and promoting peaceful resolution activities, but they can still perform better if given the opportunity. The study concludes that traditional rulers are important stakeholders in sustaining peace in Nigeria and recommends enhancing their capacity, strengthening collaboration with formal security institutions, promoting community engagement and awareness, strengthening traditional conflict resolution mechanisms, and providing government support and recognition. By implementing these recommendations, traditional rulers can effectively contribute to minimising conflicts and enhancing security in Nigeria.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the study
Insecurity in Nigeria has become a pressing and multifaceted issue that threatens the nation’s stability, social fabric, and economic progress (Osumah, 2020). The country has experienced various forms of insecurity, including but not limited to terrorism, insurgency, banditry, communal clashes, and ethno-religious tensions (Ogbonna, 2019). These security challenges have had severe consequences, resulting in significant loss of life, mass displacement of communities, destruction of infrastructure, and a pervasive sense of fear and insecurity among the population (Adeyinka, 2020).
Terrorism and insurgency have emerged as major security threats in Nigeria, particularly in the northeastern region of the country. Boko Haram, an extremist group seeking to establish an Islamic state, has carried out numerous attacks, including suicide bombings, kidnappings, and mass killings (Osumah, 2020). The group’s activities have not only led to the loss of thousands of lives but have also resulted in the displacement of millions of people and the destruction of homes, schools, and healthcare facilities (Ogbonna, 2019).
In addition to terrorism, banditry and communal clashes have become increasingly prevalent in various parts of Nigeria. Banditry involves criminal groups engaging in activities such as kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, cattle rustling, and attacks on rural communities (Adeyinka, 2020). These activities have instilled a sense of insecurity in affected areas, hampering economic activities and leading to the displacement of communities. Communal clashes, often driven by competition over resources, land disputes, or ethnic and religious differences, have also contributed to the insecurity situation in Nigeria. These conflicts have resulted in the loss of lives and property, further exacerbating existing tensions and divisions within communities (Osumah, 2020). Ethno-religious tensions and violence represent another significant aspect of insecurity in Nigeria. Interactions between different ethnic and religious groups have sometimes led to outbreaks of violence, resulting in the the loss of lives and property destruction (Ogbonna, 2019). These tensions are rooted in historical grievances, political marginalisation, and competition for resources, which have created a volatile environment susceptible to conflicts.
The recent security challenges in Nigeria have prompted a growing recognition of the vital role played by traditional rulers in maintaining peace and order. The newfound emphasis on community policing reflects an increasing appreciation for the significance of traditional institutions in the pursuit of security and stability. According to Dunmore (2009), traditional rulers possess the ability to promote harmony within their communities, either as individuals or as collective entities. Traditional rulers contribute in various ways to the cause of peacebuilding, including ensuring peace and security, gathering information and intelligence for early warning purposes, engaging in conflict mediation and resolution, facilitating reconciliation dialogues, fostering trust and confidence-building initiatives, promoting coexistence through peace education, and striving for poverty eradication, among other endeavours. Despite the absence of official recognition in Nigeria’s legal framework, traditional rulers wield substantial authority and leadership, making them a potent force. Simultaneously, they are expected to uphold peace, foster harmonious coexistence, and maintain solidarity among the various groups within their domains (Amusa and Ofuafor, 2012).
Odoh (2009), Ohtani (2009), and Abdullahi (2013) all point out that traditional rulers and political institutions in Nigeria have demonstrated long-lasting resilience and relevance from the colonial period to the present day. The persistent struggle of communities to gain recognition for their chiefs by the state government and the competition among elites to occupy vacant chieftaincy positions confirm that traditional rulership remains a vital and viable system in Nigeria. Agalamanyi (2009) further emphasises the leadership role of traditional rulers within their domains. They serve as peacemakers, comforters, and judges, playing a crucial part in maintaining peace. They understand that peace is a fundamental prerequisite for positive development, and they actively contribute to its preservation.
Traditional rulers play a crucial role in information and intelligence gathering, actively engaging and cooperating with the intelligence community. Through their participation in sharing valuable intelligence, they effectively prevent the escalation of potentially volatile ethnic, religious, and political conflicts (Mohammad, 2009). Additionally, traditional rulers contribute to security efforts through the establishment of neighbourhood watch programmes. These initiatives involve organising residents within specific communities or neighbourhoods to be vigilant and report any criminal or suspicious activities to the police. By conducting nighttime community patrols, traditional rulers contribute to communal security. Their collaboration with the police not only aids in apprehending suspects but also fosters greater community support, enabling the identification of criminal trends and proactive responses, thereby bridging the previous communication gap between the police and the communities they serve (Mohammad, 2009).
1.2 ProblemStatement
Insecurity in Nigeria has reached alarming levels in recent years, posing significant challenges to the nation’s stability, social cohesion, and economic development (Osumah, 2020). The country has been plagued by various forms of insecurity, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, communal clashes, and ethno-religious tensions (Ogbonna, 2019). These security challenges have resulted in the loss of thousands of lives, the the displacement of communities, the the destruction of infrastructure, and a general sense of fear and insecurity among the populace (Adeyinka, 2020). The problem in addressing insecurity in Nigeria is the limited capacity and resources of the formal security institutions, such as the police and military, to effectively tackle the complex and multifaceted nature of the security threats (Osumah, 2020). This has created a significant governance gap, leaving communities vulnerable and in need of alternative approaches to security provision.
Traditional rulers have long been recognised as significant actors in Nigerian society, with deep-rooted cultural and historical ties to their communities (Johnson, 2018). They possess unique local knowledge, influence, and legitimacy, which can be harnessed to address the security challenges faced by their communities (Ogbonna, 2019). However, the role of traditional rulers in tackling insecurity in Nigeria has not been fully explored, and there is a need for a deeper understanding of their potential contributions and the challenges they face in this regard.
Therefore, this research aims to investigate the role of traditional rulers in addressing insecurity in Nigeria, with a focus on how traditional rulers can contribute to solving the problem. By examining their potential to promote peace, conflict resolution, and community engagement, this study seeks to provide insights into how traditional rulers can be effectively empowered to enhance security and stability in Nigeria (Adeyinka, 2020).
1.3 Research Objectives
The main objectives of this research are as follows:
- To examine the historical and cultural significance of traditional rulers in Nigeria.
- To assess the current security challenges faced by Warri and their impact on the community.
- To analyse the role of traditional rulers in promoting peace and security within the Warri community.
- To identify the strategies employed by traditional rulers in addressing insecurity in Warri.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of traditional rulers’ efforts in tackling insecurity in Warri.
- To provide recommendations for enhancing the role of traditional rulers in addressing security challenges in Nigeria.
- Research Questions
To guide the research process, the following research questions will be addressed:
- What is the historical and cultural significance of traditional rulers in Nigeria?
- What are the major security challenges faced by the Warri community?
- How do traditional rulers contribute to promoting peace and security in Warri?
- What strategies do traditional rulers employ to address insecurity in Warri?
- How effective are the efforts of traditional rulers in tackling insecurity in Warri?
- What recommendations can be made to enhance the role of traditional rulers in addressing security challenges in Nigeria?
1.5 Significance of the Study
This research is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the role of traditional rulers in addressing insecurity in Nigeria. By focusing on the case study of Warri, the research will provide specific insights into the challenges faced by the community and the strategies employed by traditional rulers to address them.
Secondly, the findings of this study will be valuable to policymakers, security agencies, and community leaders seeking to enhance security and stability in Nigeria. Understanding the role of traditional rulers and their effectiveness in tackling insecurity can inform policy decisions and the development of appropriate strategies to address these challenges.
Finally, this research can serve as a basis for further studies on the role of traditional rulers in other regions of Nigeria or different contexts. It can also stimulate discussions and debates on the importance of traditional institutions in promoting peace and security.
- Scope and Limitations
This research will focus specifically on the role of traditional rulers in tackling insecurity in Warri, Nigeria. The study will primarily rely on qualitative research methods, including interviews, observations, and document analysis. However, it is important to note that the research findings may not be generalizable to all traditional rulers or all regions of Nigeria, as the context and dynamics can vary significantly.
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