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… It’s a Divisive Move ~ Critics
By Emmanuel Kanayo (Plain Truth Newspaper)
A bill passed by the Nigerian Senate has ignited outrage across the nation, with prominent regional groups, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the Middle Belt Forum, vehemently opposing the proposal.
The bill, which recently cleared its second reading, seeks to appoint the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife as permanent co-chairmen of the Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria. This move has been described as an affront to equity, justice, and the federal character principle enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, condemned the bill, stating, “This move is a deliberate attempt to marginalize other ethnic groups and their revered traditional institutions.”
The Middle Belt Forum also rejected the legislation, citing historical and cultural disparities that disqualify the Sultan from presiding over Middle Belt monarchs.
The forum has threatened to boycott the council if the bill becomes law, sparking concerns about ethnic dominance, fairness, and national cohesion. Stakeholders fear that enshrining permanent leadership positions for two ethnic monarchs could exacerbate existing divisions and ignite further unrest in Nigeria’s already fragile unity.
As tensions escalate, Nigerians are calling on the Senate to reconsider the bill and engage in broader consultations to ensure that the interests of all ethnic groups and traditional institutions are represented. The nation holds its breath, awaiting the outcome of this contentious proposal.
