Abstract

The place of Traditional rulers in African societies cannot be overlooked. African leaders in the olden days are seen as playing both executive, judiciary as well as security roles in their different jurisdictions. Societies were then at peace as people slept with their eyes closed, while movement were relatively restricted. But recent events have shown that jettisoning of traditional approach, cultures and customs has negatively threatened security of lives and properties, while killings and raping becomes the order of the day, mostly among indigenes, farmers and herdsmen. It is on this reaction that this study examined traditional approach to management of security challenges in contemporary Nigerian societies. The study employed a descriptive survey design, few traditional rulers were purposively selected in Western Nigeria. The study also depended on primary and secondary sources, while human need theory was adopted as its theoretical framework. Study found that traditional rulers were more active in securing their jurisdictions as well as lives and properties of their subjects, also the introduction of norms and traditions enhanced security at no or less financial cost. Study concludes that traditional rulers were found relevant to play active role(s) in the maintenance of law and orders. They were also found playing mediatory role on conflict matters in the societies. The study therefore recommends that traditional approach should be re-introduced in the face of herdsman and indigenous disputes that is plaguing Nigerian’s oneness. Also, there should be synergy of traditional and modern approaches recognizing that traditional rulers are familiar with occurrences within their jurisdictions.