Sheriff Mulade Calls for Government Collaboration with Traditional Institutions to Combat Insecurity and Promote Peace in Nigeria
ABUJA/Nigeria: Amidst a surge in violent crimes plaguing the nation, Chief Sheriff Mulade, the National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), has issued a compelling call to action, urging the government to engage traditional institutions as key partners in restoring peace and stability across Nigeria.
Recognizing the important role that traditional rulers can play in the fight against insecurity, he emphasized the urgent need for collaboration between government agencies and these venerable community leaders.
Drawing upon CEPEJ’s wealth of experience in peacebuilding and community engagement, Mulade highlighted the invaluable insights and local knowledge possessed by traditional rulers, underscoring their indispensable role in tackling the nation’s security challenges.
“Traditional rulers, as custodians of culture and traditions, are uniquely positioned to tackle insecurity within their domains,” asserted Mulade.
He stressed the importance of empowering these leaders with the responsibility to safeguard their communities, advocating for a collaborative effort between traditional institutions and security agencies. Mulade proposed allocating security votes to traditional rulers to bolster their efforts in maintaining peace and order on the ground.
Moreover, Mulade underscored the severe economic implications of persistent insecurity, citing its detrimental effects on national growth and investor confidence. He called upon the government to prioritize security as a collective responsibility, urging inclusive strategies to address unemployment and youth restiveness, which fuel the cycle of violence.
Highlighting the Five deadly monster indicators of insecurity – Political, Religious, Economic, Traditional/Communal, and Criminal/Unemployment – Mulade made a compelling case for constitutional reform to formally integrate traditional rulers into the governance structure. He argued that such a move would enhance accountability and transparency at the grassroots level, while leveraging the influence and expertise of traditional leaders in crafting effective security policies.
In a passionate appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mulade urged decisive action to confront the security challenges threatening Nigeria’s existence. He emphasized the urgency of adopting a “security for all” approach, transcending political and religious divides to prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens.
In conclusion, Mulade reiterated the imperative of government collaboration with traditional institutions, emphasizing that their empowerment and involvement are critical steps towards achieving lasting peace and economic stability in Nigeria.
