POLITICAL PARTY AND TRADITIONAL RULERS IN NIGERIA: THE EKITI DIMENSION (1999 – 2015).
Authors:
ADESIYAN Victor
Publication Type: Books
Journal: Interagency Cooperation For Peace And Security In Nigeria
ISSN Number:
0
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Abstract
Traditional rulers, a noble institution in Africa with multi-facet roles both in security of lives and properties, maintenance of peace and fathers to its subjects. It is assumed that this respected position should however be neutral in certain things within the society which include party politics. Thus, recent events have shown that despite displaying neutrality to politics, political actors still fraternizing with this institution. This paper therefore, examined the influence of traditional rulers in the politics of Ekiti state. A descriptive survey design was used, as study relied on primary and secondary sources, which includes questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion, and interview guide to generate its data, while purposive sampling technique was adopted to select 7 traditional rulers, and quota sampling techniques was used to select the politicians among 3 notable political parties (APC, PDP, and Accord Party); elite theory was adopted as its theoretical framework. Study however found that politician patronizes palaces to secure traditional blessings towards their political ambitions. Also, due to constitutional gaps; politicians woo the institution with juices promissory. Study therefore recommends official responsibilities and adequate funding for the institution which should be enshrined in the Nigerian constitution, while traditional rulers should reduce fraternizing with the political office holders.
