Traditionalists in Nigeria have attempted to respond to emerging societal challenges to maintain relevance as community leaders. Historically, the traditional system of governance or leadership is built on the strength of individuals to command followers with coercion, authority, bravery, and courage. However, this approach often contradicts the values of social justice, fairness, and equality that traditional institutions claim to uphold.
By Bagudu Mohammed
The traditional system is built on conservatism, culture, and tradition, which most traditionalists believe should be sustained or protected as sacred. For instance, Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, criticized the split of the Kano emirate as a distortion of 100 years of history and tradition of the people.
Paradoxically, traditional leaders attempt to take up new roles of advocacy, human rights, equality, morality, fairness, and social justice, which are not part of their core values or foundation. This often betrays their sincerity and genuine commitment to these causes.
A clear example of this paradox is the “royal” theory of emancipation of women or prevention of domestic violence proposed by Emir Sanusi. He suggested that if a husband slaps his wife, she should slap him back. This approach is not built on morality, humility, modesty, restraint, or emotional intelligence, which religion encourages. Instead, it promotes revenge and retaliation, which are against the principles of modern civilization and humility.
This paradox highlights the challenges of traditionalists in embracing modernity and radical change. While they attempt to preserve old ways, they also desire to be seen as modernizers. However, their actions and values often contradict this desire, making it difficult for them to be potent advocates for radical change.
Contempt for revenge, bitterness, lack of forgiveness, humility, and sacrifice are some of the reasons Sanusi lost significant fans, including myself, during his reinstatement as the Emir of Kano. Interestingly, it’s the love for hate that has made great people in history, such as Prophet Mohammed, Jesus Christ, and even Nelson Mandela, who are revered for their remarkable ability to forgive and let go against paying evil with evil.
Mohammed sent in this peice through bagudum75@gmail.com
