The Problem of Integrating Traditional Rulers Into the Contemporary Local Government System in Nigeria: A Pathway to Resolving the Challenge

Abstract

This paper attempts an examination of the problem of integrating traditional rulers into the contemporary local government system in Nigeria with a view of resolving the problems arising from the tradition/modernity nexus in the present scheme of things. Two basic questions guided this work. The first question relates to the relevance of indigenous traditional institutions to the challenges of contemporary democratic process. The second question relates to whether traditional modes of thought behaviour and institutions constitute resources or impediments to the projects of modernization and development. This paper concludes that the goal of modernization is to generate rapid increase in social wealth and its driving force is economic development; and where traditional institutions are able to contribute positively to this goal, it should not be jettisoned.

Key words: Traditional Authority Systems, Traditional Rulers (Emirs, Obas),
Cultural Revivalism, Antimodern.