The Abuja Original Inhabitants and Youth Empowerment Organisation (AOIYEO) has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his efforts to upgrade traditional rulers' stools across the territory. This development is seen as a positive step towards boosting the status and authority of traditional leaders in the FCT.
The group, however, believes that more needs to be done to support traditional institutions. They are calling for a five per cent budgetary allocation to aid the development and empowerment of these institutions. This move is aimed at strengthening the traditional rulers' capacity to cater to the needs of their communities.
The Minister's upgrade of traditional rulers' stools is seen as a significant gesture, but it is only a starting point. The group is now pushing for concrete financial support to take these institutions to the next level.
Nyesom Wike's decision to upgrade traditional rulers' stools across the FCT is a step in the right direction, but it is only a gesture without substance. The real test lies in the Minister's willingness to allocate a significant portion of the FCT's budget to support traditional institutions. A five per cent allocation would be a good starting point, but it is crucial that this allocation is not just a tokenistic gesture. For everyday Nigerians, this means that traditional leaders will have the resources to deliver essential services to their communities. The FCT's budget should reflect the Minister's commitment to empowering traditional institutions, rather than just paying lip service to their importance.
