The Role of Traditional Institutions Kingdoms in National Security

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THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN NATIONAL SECURITY: UBWAMI INTRODUCTION 1. Ethnic nationalities in many parts of the world have a rich heritage which predates the colonization era. Prior to the advent of colonialism, various ethnic nationalities had well established political institutions which met the social, economic and political needs and aspirations of their peoples. These institutions are today commonly referred to as traditional institutions, which are part of the deep-rooted and rich cultural heritage of those ethnic groups. 2. With the ever increasing security challenges facing nations today, the integration of traditional rulers into a security network that will provide necessary stability is desirable. To effectively operate, the security agencies often have to relate with traditional rulers who play prominent roles at the grassroots. They are very well situated to assist security agents in neutralizing threats emanating from their domains or neighboring communities. 3. Traditional Rulers in Africa and other parts of the world played important roles in recent times that doused tension in crises situations which could have escalated into major crisis. Traditional rulers have always been called upon and used to neutralize crises as and when they arose. Besides, certain governments realize that, the surest way to win the hearts and minds of the citizens on major issues of the day is through the traditional rulers. 4. Traditional rulers, worldwide, have been involved in the past and continue to be involved in the maintenance of national security. Traditional rulers can help the state in maintaining among others Trans-border security, Internal physical and Community security, and Food security, to mention a few. It is noteworthy to mention that while traditional institutions played, and still play vital roles in the administration of the

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