On traditional rulers and politics in Benue

THE Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, recently gave an order prohibiting traditional rulers in Tivland, Benue State, from appearing at political rallies and receptions. This is a wise decision that must be applauded.

I agree that traditional rulers should have interactions with all political aspirants or candidates and give their fatherly blessings to them within their respective palaces or chambers and that should always be done without discrimination.

Before now, some traditional rulers in Benue State were known to be supporters of some politicians in the state, thereby allowing politicians to use them for their political ambitions in order to win elections by all means.

These traditional rulers abandoned their traditional roles and became full-time political cronies, serving the interest of politicians in the state.

Nevertheless, their engagement in politics brought shame and calamity in the Tiv nation and Benue State in general.

They desecrated their thrones with politics and lost their respect. Now, many of them are still trying to regain their respect but it is very difficult for them because of the unclean roles they played in previous elections in the state.

Therefore, I hope that the decision that prohibits their engagement in politics can help them to regain their respect if it can be sustained and enforced. It may also help in rebuilding the Tiv nation and the Benue State as a whole.

Let me at this point call on other Royal Majesties in the state to emulate the Tor Tiv, by placing a ban on traditional rulers’ involvement in politics.

This will ensure uniformity and unity among traditional rulers in Benue State, rebuild the state and reunite the people.

If that happens, it will be a total cleansing and it will give room for greater development.

Awunah Terwase: 08179289948