By: Adejola Adeyemi Crown
Nigeria, a country rich in cultural diversity and history has witnessed a disturbing trend in recent years – the killing of Monarchs and sacrilege to traditional institutions.
Monarchs, often revered as custodians of tradition and symbols of unity, have become targets of violence, leading to a deepening crisis that threatens the nation’s cultural heritage.
Monarchy in Nigeria dates back to centuries and plays a vital role in the socio – political fabrics of the nation.
Traditional rulers known as kings or Obas in some regions are highly esteemed figures responsible for upholding cultural norms, resolving disputes, and promoting community development. Their authority is deprived from both historical lineage and the respect the command within their communities.
In recent times, Nigeria has witnessed a disturbing trend that strikes at the heart of its cultural heritage – the continuous assassination of traditional rulers.
The traditional institution, revered for its historical significance and role in fostering unity, is facing unprecedented challenges as the nation grapples with the tragic loss of its revered monarchs.
This article sheds light on the alarming incidents, focusing on the recent assassination of Segun Aremu, a monarch in Kwara State, and the broader implications for the sanctity of the traditional institution.
The Ekiti Incidents:
The unsettling series of events began with the tragic killings of two Ekiti monarchs by unknown gunmen.
The two monarchs — the Onimojo of Imojo-Ekiti, Oba Olatunde Olusola; and the Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, Oba David Ogunsola — were killed when they were returning from a meeting in Irele-Ekiti on Monday.
These heinous acts not only shook the affected communities but also sent shockwaves throughout the country.
The traditional rulers, seen as custodians of cultural heritage and symbols of unity, were brutally taken away, leaving their communities in mourning.
The Murder of Segun Aremu in Kwara State:
Adding to the grim narrative, the assassination of King Segun Aremu in Kwara State has heightened concerns about the vulnerability of traditional rulers in Nigeria. King Aremu, like his counterparts, held a significant role in maintaining the cultural fabric of his community. His untimely death raises questions about the motives behind such targeted attacks and the potential consequences for the stability of the traditional institution.
The continuous assassination of traditional rulers not only inflicts immense pain on the affected communities but also poses a direct threat to the traditional institution’s sanctity.
These revered figures play pivotal roles in conflict resolution, cultural preservation, and community development.
The erosion of trust and security within these roles can have far-reaching consequences for the cohesion of society.
Apart from physical violence against monarchs, there have been instances of sacrilege to royal stool, where traditional institutions are undermined or desecrated.
This may include the disrespect of royal traditions, interference of selection of traditional rulers, or attempts to weaken the authority of monarchs.
Such sacrilege not only undermines the cultural heritage of Nigeria, but also erodes the foundation of social order.
The continuous erosion of these institutions weakens the cultural identity that has held diverse communities together for centuries, as a result the nation faces the risk of losing a crucial aspect of its rich heritage.
Meanwhile, understanding the root causes of these assassinations is crucial for addressing the issue effectively. Factors such as political instability, land disputes, and communal tensions may contribute to the targeting of traditional rulers. Furthermore, the lack of adequate security measures to protect these leaders exposes them to increased risks.
Call for Urgent Action:
To preserve the sanctity of the traditional institution, there is an urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of these assassinations. Strengthening security measures, fostering community engagement, and promoting dialogue are essential steps in safeguarding the invaluable role of traditional rulers in Nigerian society.
In conclusion, the continuous assassination of traditional rulers in Nigeria is a grievous threat to the nation’s cultural heritage and social stability.
The loss of these revered figures not only leaves communities in mourning but also jeopardizes the integral roles they play in fostering unity and preserving cultural traditions.
It is imperative for all stakeholders, including government authorities, traditional institutions, and the general populace, to work together to safeguard the invaluable heritage that has defined Nigeria for centuries. As only through conceited efforts can the nation preserve its rich cultural tapestry and ensure a harmonious future for its people by preserving the royal institutions.
As the nation grapples with these tragic incidents, concerted efforts must be made to protect and uphold the sanctity of the traditional institution, ensuring its continued contribution to the fabric of Nigerian society.
Adejola Adeyemi Crown writes from Abeokuta, Ogun State. He’s also the Publisher of Tropic Reporters adejola2010@gmail.com 07066518087
