Sanwo-Olu urges constitutional role for traditional rulers
..Says their voices remain nation’s moral compass
By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for a constitutionally backed role for traditional rulers in Nigeria, describing them as indispensable custodians of peace, unity, and moral authority whose voices continue to shape national stability.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the appeal on Monday while delivering a welcome address at the 2025 National Executive Committee Meeting of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.
The two-day event, themed “The Traditional Institution: The Imperative of its Inclusion in the Effective and Efficient Governance in Nigeria,” brought together monarchs from across the federation to discuss the place of traditional authority in modern governance.
Sanwo-Olu praised the traditional institution as the bridge between the government and the people, noting that monarchs translate policies into community realities, mediate disputes, and uphold peace in society.
He said: “Long before modern governance took shape, our traditional institutions were the bedrock of stability, justice, and social order.
“Here in Lagos, we understand that no government can thrive without the support of its traditional institutions.”
The governor lamented that years of military rule had eroded the influence of traditional rulers in national life, describing it as a “fatal blow” to their once-prominent roles.
He, however, urged monarchs to continue pressing for constitutional recognition, assuring that his administration would support the advocacy.
He added: “For governance to be truly effective, it must be inclusive.
“That means acknowledging the advisory, moral, and social roles of traditional rulers. We must clearly define their place within our constitutional framework.”
Citing pre-colonial and colonial examples, the governor paid tribute to legendary monarchs such as Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi of Benin, King Jaja of Opobo, Nana Olomu of Itsekiri, Chief Ogedengbe of Ilesha, Emir Muhammadu Attahiru I of Sokoto, Oba Sanusi Olusi of Lagos, and Oba Akenzua II of Benin, whom he described as “courageous men whose defiance paved the way for Nigeria’s independence.”
Sanwo-Olu further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his democratic leadership, recalling the role of traditional rulers who stood firm during the struggle against military dictatorship.
He encouraged monarchs to remain pillars of integrity, fairness, and unity, while continuing to speak for peace and development.
“Your voices hold significant power — when you speak for peace, equity, and progress, you touch hearts and shape futures,” the governor stated.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated his government’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of traditional rulers in Lagos, promising continued collaboration with the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs to sustain peace and community growth.
He urged the gathering to adopt bold resolutions that strengthen the connection between traditional authority and democratic governance, stressing that the outcome of the meeting should move Nigeria closer to an inclusive and stable governance model.
“Let this meeting be a pivotal moment that redefines how traditional institutions contribute to nation-building,” he added.