February 18, (THEWILL) – Recent events in Nigeria have illuminated the precarious state of traditional monarchies, with a spate of depositions by state governors that have highlighted their vulnerability to the whims of political power. This situation demands a comprehensive reassessment of the role of monarchy within Nigeria’s socio-political landscape and calls for the establishment of legal frameworks that involve citizen involvement to safeguard these institutions’ historical and cultural significance. These traditional structures, which have served as symbols of unity and custodians of heritage for centuries, are integral to the fabric of Nigerian society and possess the potential to significantly contribute to national integration, security, and conflict resolution.
The unilateral deposition of monarchs, often driven by personal and political motives, has not only destabilized the affected communities but also called into question the legitimacy and continuity of cultural leadership. Such actions disregard the deep-seated connections between monarchs and their subjects, particularly in remote and ungoverned areas where traditional rulers provide essential governance and security functions. Nigerian monarchies, therefore, must be protected from executive caprice and realigned with the nation’s governance and developmental goals.
The challenge lies in reconciling the historical reverence for monarchs with the realities of modern governance and the need for a more democratic and inclusive approach to traditional leadership. The current constitutional framework does not adequately protect traditional monarchies from political interference nor does it integrate them into the national governance structure. To address this, there must be a holistic approach that involves broad-based citizen consultation and the establishment of clear, transparent, and culturally respectful guidelines for the selection, legislation, and abdication of traditional rulers.
Proposed reforms should include amending the constitution to provide explicit recognition and protection for traditional institutions, establishing legal guidelines that honor historical, traditional, and cultural practices in selecting monarchs, and defining the constitutional roles and responsibilities of traditional rulers. Additionally, strengthening the administrative and financial autonomy of traditional institutions would enhance their capacity to serve their communities effectively, and promoting the inclusion of traditional rulers in formal governance structures would ensure their contributions to policymaking and national discourse are recognised and valued.
In conclusion, the recent challenges faced by Nigeria’s monarchies necessitate a reexamination of their place within the nation’s socio-political fabric. By embedding traditional institutions within a legal framework that promotes inclusivity, transparency, and cultural respect, Nigeria can protect these vital pillars of its heritage and ensure they continue to play a constructive role in the nation’s governance and pursuit of national cohesion and peace.
Breaking the Cycle of Pessimism and Cynicism: A Call for Media Literacy in Nigeria
In recent times, it is disheartening to observe that a significant number of Nigerians seem to be trapped in a perpetual state of pessimism and cynicism. This pervasive negativity appears to stem largely from an overconsumption of news and information that is often sensationalised, biased and lacking in factual accuracy. As a result, many individuals are inadvertently being fed a diet of misinformation and skewed perspectives, ultimately contributing to a culture of cynicism and despair.
The media, which plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and discourse, has a powerful influence on the mindset of the populace.
Regrettably, Nigeria experiences a significant lack of journalistic excellence, which has led to a longstanding culture of subpar media, thereby amplifying the spread of biased and exaggerated information.
This, coupled with low levels of media literacy among the general population, has led to a toxic cycle of pessimism and cynicism.
It is essential to recognise that media literacy is fundamental in empowering individuals to critically analyze and evaluate the information they consume. By fostering media literacy, individuals can develop the skills to discern credible sources, identify bias, and differentiate between fact and opinion. This, in turn, can help break the cycle of pessimism and cynicism perpetuated by sensationalized and inaccurate media content.
Furthermore, the responsibility also lies with the media outlets themselves to uphold journalistic integrity and ethical reporting standards. Sensationalism and biased reporting not only erode public trust but also contribute to the proliferation of misinformation, ultimately fueling pessimism and cynicism within society.
Addressing this issue necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, there is a need for concerted efforts to enhance media literacy among Nigerians. Educational institutions, community organizations, and the government can collaborate to develop programs that promote critical thinking and discernment in consuming news and information. By equipping individuals with the tools to navigate the media landscape effectively, we can mitigate the spread of misinformation and foster a more informed and optimistic society.
Additionally, media outlets should prioritise accuracy, balance, and ethical reporting. Journalists and media professionals play a pivotal role in shaping public discourse, and it is imperative that they adhere to the highest standards of integrity and objectivity. By holding themselves accountable and providing well-researched, factual information, the media can help rebuild public trust and mitigate the prevalence of pessimism and cynicism.
***Baba Isimi, FNIA, is an architect, businessman and politician*
