Shuaibu Usman
A revered traditional ruler in Nasarawa State, the Aren Eggon, Justice Ahmed Ubangari Alaku Rtd, has joined his voice in the assignment of constitutional roles to the traditional institution in the country, believing that the society is changing fast and traditional rulers can address the challenges at the grassroots well.
The first-class monarch said years ago, the traditional rulers had a lot of powers ready to contain all situations there and then but now it is not the case, tasking authorities concerned to give accelerated attention to address the challenges.
He made this known while speaking with Nasarawa Newsline on the 5th anniversary of the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage l retired on the Lafia royal stool in Lafia, Wednesday.
Justice Alaku added that the custom and tradition of the people are extremely important to use them and solve their basic problems, noting that the traditional institution knows the tradition and in best position to use it for maximum benefit if assigned the responsibility constitutionally.
Talking memory lane, he recalled his sojourn with the Emir of Lafia, revealing that the Lafia Emir has been a bosom friend and professional colleague who respects fairness and uprightness in his dealings, stressing the desire for younger generations to emulate good virtues that will be of good moral benefits to them.
While congratulating Emir Bage as he marks his fifth commemorative anniversary, the Aren Eggon called on the people of the state to remain receptive to visitors, researchers and other distinguished dignitaries who would be attending the anniversary to accord more prestige to the land and grow their socio-economic strength.
On the preservation of societal values and customs from unhindered extinction, he said the traditional institution has a lot of work to do through education and support from government to promote and preserve cultural heritage from going extinct.
The Aren Eggon, who rose from the position of a court translator to the highest judiciary position in the state, the chief judge, noted that Emir Bage is equal to the task as he came prepared with the knowledge and good background he had in the judiciary and royalty.