From David Onuoja, Abuja
High Chief Wisdom Chukwuma Okoye, has called for a thorough vetting process before the coronation of traditional rulers in Nigeria, saying only persons of proven character should be made kings and chiefs.
Okoye, who is also the Diaspora Leader of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 2027 Campaign Group, made the call recently at the public presentation of “Culture Nigeria”, a book written by Isaac Osaikhiwu Isaac, held at Barcelona Hotel, Abuja.
The traditional leader said kingmakers must move away from sentiments and apply clear parameters in selecting Paramount Chiefs, Emirs, and other royal figures.
“It is time for kingmakers to select the best people in society as traditional rulers. Leadership must be based on character, not other considerations,” he said.
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He warned that installing persons with questionable backgrounds undermines community development and discipline.
“If you coronate a traditional leader who is a thief, an armed robber, or a fraudster, there is no way his subjects will behave well or there will be meaningful development. Leaders must show good example,” Okoye stated.
He urged Nigerians to promote their culture at home and abroad. “Wherever you go, you must first be identified by your culture. Go to your villages and proclaim it,” he added.
Speaking on security, Chief Okoye endorsed the proposed creation of state police, saying it will strengthen grassroots security.
On politics, he praised President Tinubu for taking difficult but necessary decisions. He said the diaspora wing of the campaign group is ready to mobilise for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
“We are lucky to have a president with good ideas and the capacity to make hard decisions. In the diaspora, we have seen his work and we are ready to campaign for him in 2027,” he said.
