2027: Traditional rulers face neutrality test as politicians storm palaces
Punch Nigeria · Chima Azubuike ·
As the 2027 elections approach, Nigerian traditional rulers face a delicate battle to preserve their political neutrality as politicians seek their influen
As political interests increasingly seek the influence of traditional institutions, Nigeria’s royal fathers face a delicate battle to preserve their neutrality, authority and place above partisan divisions, writes CHIMA AZUBUIKE
When the Emir of Gombe, Abubakar-Shehu Abubakar III, declared that traditional rulers belonged to no political party and would not allow personal considerations to divide the communities entrusted to their care, his message resonated beyond the confines of his palace. Abubakar echoed this imperative when the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan, visited him in his palace last Monday. The visit touched on one of the most delicate questions in Nigeria’s political landscape: whether traditional institutions can remain impartial despite the fact that their positions, privileges and continued relevance are often tied to the political establishment. It was also a timely reminder of the responsibility traditional rulers bear as custodians of community values, mediators in local disputes and influential voices in grassroots political engagement. The visits of political office holders, political office seekers to palaces is bound to increase ahead of the 2027 elections.
Amupitan’s visit was part of INEC’s North-East zonal interactive meeting with electoral officials and stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general election. Beyond seeking royal blessings and prayers, the engagement offered an opportunity to reflect on the influence traditional rulers wield over their subjects and the extent to which that influence can contribute to credible elections.
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