Traditional rulers from across the Anioma Nation have called for strict adherence to customs, stronger legal frameworks, and the insulation of traditional institutions from politics as key measures to curb kingship disputes and succession-related conflicts in Delta North.
These resolutions were part of a communiqué issued at the end of the inaugural Delta North Traditional Rulers Peace Symposium convened by the Anioma Peace Advocacy and Development Initiative.
The symposium brought together revered monarchs and stakeholders to deliberate on practical strategies for preventing and resolving disputes, particularly those linked to succession processes within communities.
In his welcome address, the President and Convener of the initiative, Prince Nath Obiokolie, highlighted recurring issues fueling conflicts in Anioma communities, citing Egbudu-Akah and others as examples.
He stressed the need for collective input in addressing the challenges and expressed optimism that such engagements would not only improve dispute management but also lead to the development of legislative instruments to regulate kingship succession in Delta State.
The event featured keynote and scholarly presentations from notable academics. Emeka Chianu, a Professor of Law at the University of Benin, delivered a keynote address examining male-preference primogeniture as a mechanism for peaceful succession.
Uche Oboko of Dennis Osadebay University spoke on the role of community and religious leaders in promoting peace, while David I. Efevwerhan of the Nigerian Law School, Bayelsa Campus, addressed customary law and statutory safeguards in succession matters.
Following extensive deliberations, participants resolved that succession processes must strictly follow established customs, whether through primogeniture or rotational systems, regardless of the educational background of successors.
They emphasised that traditional rulers must be accorded due respect as custodians of culture and symbols of authority.
The symposium further called for transparency and integrity in the selection of traditional rulers, urging that kingmakers remain impartial and free from undue influence.
It also stressed the importance of separating traditional institutions from partisan politics to preserve neutrality and ensure stability.
Participants advocated for a review and strengthening of existing laws governing traditional institutions and proposed the establishment of an independent succession monitoring body to ensure fairness, transparency, and due process in the selection of monarchs.
On conflict resolution, the gathering underscored dialogue as the primary tool, encouraging continuous engagement among stakeholders.
It also raised concerns over the current practice of presenting staff of office to traditional rulers, recommending a policy review to ensure legitimacy remains rooted in indigenous customs.
The communiqué highlighted the need for discipline within traditional structures, including the adoption of oath-taking processes for chiefs to promote loyalty and accountability.
It also urged sustained peace advocacy, cultural orientation for younger generations, and the documentation of traditional practices through bylaws to guide dispute resolution.
In a progressive move, the symposium called for greater inclusion of women in traditional governance, urging recognition of the role of the “Omus” as leaders of women in decision-making processes.
The participants reaffirmed their commitment to continuous dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy to preserve the sanctity of traditional institutions and promote lasting peace and unity across Anioma communities.
The communiqué drafting committee was chaired by Comrade Celestine Afokobah, with Comrade Patrick Ochei serving as secretary.
