Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has raised concerns over the decline of integrity within the country’s traditional leadership, alleging that criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits, and kidnappers have infiltrated royal institutions.

In his newly released book, Obasanjo lamented the erosion of values that once upheld the dignity of traditional rulers, blaming the abandonment of the rigorous training and apprenticeship system that ensured only worthy individuals ascended to royal positions.

“Today, there are criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits, and kidnappers being recognized as so-called traditional rulers,” he stated.

The former president criticized the moral decay among some monarchs, accusing them of unethical behavior rather than serving as custodians of culture and justice. He cited an instance where a traditional ruler was caught engaging in electoral malpractice.

“How do we justify a traditional ruler snatching a ballot box at an election polling station and running away with it?” he asked.

Reflecting on the past, Obasanjo noted that traditional rulers were once highly respected, particularly during the colonial and early post-independence periods. However, he argued, that honor has been “diluted and polluted.”

Calling for urgent reforms, Obasanjo insisted that Nigeria’s traditional institutions must regain their lost dignity to become assets rather than liabilities to national development.

“That dignity, aura, and respect must be restored. Traditional rulers should contribute to Nigeria’s greatness, not add to its problems,” he declared.

He further emphasized the need for a moral rejuvenation among traditional rulers, especially those with deep historical significance, arguing that if properly repositioned, they could play a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s future.