Effective Traditional Institution, Panacea To Restiveness ~Sen. Ani

By Wilson Ogbonnaya Okereke, Abakaliki

The Senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial Zone, Senator Professor Anthony Okorie Ani, has attributed the prevailing peaceful co-existence in Ebonyi State to the active roles played by traditional institutions across the various communities. Senator Ani, who spoke with journalists recently, emphasized that the traditional system not only serves as a bridge between the grassroots and government but also contributes immensely to administrative development in the state. He therefore advised that traditional rulers should be continually revered and supported in the discharge of their duties.

According to the lawmaker, the institution remains a reliable mechanism for conflict resolution, stressing that the intervention of community leaders in disputes has significantly reduced the number of cases that would have ordinarily piled up in courts across the country. He commended traditional rulers in Ebonyi for maintaining peace and order in their respective domains, describing their role as invaluable to the sustenance of democracy. “Traditional leadership, usually vested in chiefs or kings, has been the mainstay of community governance, conflict resolution and social order. It plays a vital role in preventing restiveness and other forms of agitation,” Senator Ani said. He further noted that the recognition given to outstanding members of society through the conferment of chieftaincy titles not only promotes moral values but also serves as encouragement for others to contribute positively to community development. While acknowledging their pivotal role, Senator Ani urged traditional rulers to remain truthful, dedicated, and accountable in order to sustain the confidence reposed in them by their subjects. He maintained that transparency in their leadership would strengthen good governance and ensure stability at both local and state levels. The senator reiterated that effective collaboration between government and traditional institutions is key to sustaining peace, enhancing grassroots development, and averting restiveness in society.