Traditional Rulers Are Pillars of Stability and Development, Says RMAFC Chairman

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Mohammed Bello Shehu, has lauded traditional rulers for their crucial role as custodians of culture and agents of stability and development in Nigeria.

He made these remarks during a courtesy visit by traditional rulers from Nasarawa State, led by His Royal Highness Abdullahi Amegwa, the Osana of Keana, on Monday, October 7, 2024, in Abuja.

Speaking at the meeting, Shehu emphasized the significance of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s governance, especially before the colonial era.

“Prior to the colonial era, the system of government that existed in Nigeria was controlled by traditional rulers. The remarkable role they played, not only as custodians of culture and traditions but also as development agents in the various societies that now make up Nigeria, cannot be overemphasized,” Shehu stated.

He also highlighted the need to acknowledge the pivotal role traditional rulers continue to play in modern Nigeria, urging for their inclusion in the country’s governance framework.

He expressed hope that the ongoing constitutional reforms would recognize this role and ensure adequate funding to enable traditional rulers to continue holding society together as they have done for generations.

Reflecting on past reforms, Shehu noted, “We did not get things right with the Local Government reforms of 1976, nor with the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), but I hope and pray that the present attempt at reforming the Constitution will place a bigger role on traditional rulers and ensure sustainable funding.”

During the visit, Dr. Samson Gamu Yare, the Chun mada , speaking on behalf of the delegation, raised concerns over the 5% allocation to traditional councils from local government funds.

He appealed for the commission’s intervention to ensure that these funds are deducted at the source and disbursed directly to traditional councils to promote accountability and compliance.

“Even with the improvement in statutory allocations, the 5% allocated to traditional councils has continued to decline, which is a serious concern for us,” Yare remarked.

He added that past experiences with the deduction formula have been unsatisfactory and called for a more effective system.

Yare also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to strengthening the local government system, referencing the Supreme Court ruling that granted financial autonomy to local governments, as provided for in the Constitution.

He further congratulated the RMAFC Chairman and members for their appointment and service to the country.

In response, members and directors of the commission underscored the need for a clear policy on the deduction and allocation of the 5% entitlement to traditional councils.

The traditional rulers were advised to submit a formal letter to the Presidential Committee on Local Government Autonomy, with a copy to the RMAFC for further action.

Other members of the Nasarawa State delegation included His Royal Highness Mahmoud Umar Bwalla, the Sangarin Shabu, and His Royal Highness Pham. Luka Panya Baba, the Esu Karu.