The Olu of Aboruboye International Empire and Executive President of the Ancient Religion Societies of African Descendants International Council, Dr Sola Atanda has called on the government at all levels to exercise greater discretion in the selection of traditional rulers across Nigeria.
Speaking during a press interview ahead of the Isese Day Festival in Abuja on Tuesday, Atanda emphasised the need for thorough vetting of candidates to ensure that those appointed as kings are truly qualified to uphold the culture and traditions of their people.
“Our forefathers established this organisation in 1795, even before the white man became involved,” Dr. Atanda remarked, highlighting the long history of the Ancient Religion Societies of African Descendants.
“To be the president of this council is a significant assignment, and it’s a role that requires deep understanding and respect for our traditions,” he said.
Atanda expressed concern that some of the recent appointments of traditional rulers have been influenced by factors other than merit, leading to a disconnect between the rulers and the communities they are supposed to serve.
“When a king is given a certificate to reign, it is essential that the government investigates whether the candidate is truly competent to discharge the duties of upholding, promoting, and guiding the tradition and custom of their people,” he said.
“If the person appointed as a king is not properly vetted, we end up with leaders who do the opposite of what they were chosen for—fighting, blocking, and even destroying the culture they are meant to preserve.”
Drawing on an analogy, Atanda likened the situation to hiring someone for a job they are not qualified for.
“It’s like giving a job in the judiciary to someone who is not a lawyer,” he explained. “If you put someone in a position they are not qualified for, how can they do the job effectively? This is part of the problem we are facing with some of our traditional rulers today.”
The monarch also stressed the importance of gratitude and prayer in the lives of individuals and communities, especially during traditional festivals.
“Gratitude is the food of your creator,” Atanda noted. “If you do not express gratitude properly, you may not receive more blessings. The festivals we hold are a way to give thanks and to request more from our creator, but this must be done sincerely and with the right intentions.”
He further urged the government to recognise the significance of traditional religion and the role it plays in the spiritual and cultural life of Nigerians. “The Universal Day for Traditional Religion, which we celebrate on August 28th, is a day to honor our faith, our traditions, and our ancestors,” Atanda said.
“It is not just about rituals and ceremonies; it is about living our lives in a way that is true to our beliefs and values.”
“The impact of getting it wrong is profound,” Atanda warned.
“When leaders are chosen who do not truly represent the people, it leads to a breakdown in trust, a loss of cultural identity, and the societal problems we see today—corruption, kidnapping, and a general sense of disillusionment among the populace.”
The monarch called on all stakeholders, including the government and community leaders, to work together to ensure that traditional institutions are led by individuals who are not only qualified but also committed to preserving the rich cultural heritage of their people.
“This is not just about titles or positions,” he stated. “It is about the future of our communities and the legacy we leave for the generations to come.”
