… Resign, join politics if you are interested,Orogu caution traditional rulers
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Hon. Francis Orogu, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nasarawa State, has voiced his concerns over the alleged destruction of the democratic system in the state by traditional rulers.
In a press briefing held on Thursday, Orogu expressed his dissatisfaction with the increasing intervention and interference of traditional rulers in political activities.
During the briefing, Orogu revealed that he had previously released an advisory statement to traditional rulers, urging them to refrain from openly interfering in politics in Nasarawa State. However, he stated that the situation has worsened over time, prompting him to speak out again.
Orogu highlighted a recent incident involving a member of the PDP representing the OBI 1 constituency who was invited by the traditional council. Despite some people advising against attending, Orogu insisted that the member should go to the meeting out of respect.
To ensure representation, Orogu sent several PDP leaders, including the Chairman of the PDP Leaders Forum in OBI and former Zonal Chairman in Nasarawa State, Yusuf Idogo, to accompany the member.
“Unknown to them, the traditional rulers and a few elders had their own plans. They colluded with chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and requested the PDP member to join them in pledging support for the former speaker, Balarabe, during a visit to the Government House.”
According to Orogu, the PDP leaders present at the meeting were denied the opportunity to speak, while some APC leaders and those seeking commissioner positions were given a platform.
He said the PDP member was allegedly coerced into going to the Government House, and when the chairman of the elders forum questioned the forceful approach, “he was threatened with dire consequences if he did not comply.” “This incident is part of a pattern, with similar actions being carried out against PDP members in the past, resulting in the stifling of democracy in Nasarawa State, Orogu claimed.
Furthermore, He said many of the traditional leaders were appointed not chosen by their people adding that many of them were not successful in their traditional elections and were forcefully instated by the government, perhaps as a way to repay them.
“Some of these rulers may be driven by personal economic struggles, which can lead them to engage in questionable activities. However, these reasons, no matter how valid they may seem, cannot justify their interference in politics.”
“What we are witnessing is a clear and open violation of their primary responsibilities as traditional rulers. Instead of focusing on the needs of their constituents, many of whom are suffering due to harsh economic conditions, they have become overly partisan and abandoned their core duties. For instance, I personally own a farm, and there are numerous people who can no longer tend to their farms because of various challenges.What actions are these traditional rulers taking to address such critical issues. He asked.
“I speak from experience, having been a traditional ruler myself. When I was a member of the assembly, the Governor of Nasarawa State promised me the opportunity to reclaim my father’s throne.”
However, “my father’s throne was not a politically created position; it has existed for generations. I refused the offer and chose to pursue a career in politics. This is in stark contrast to those who have been appointed as traditional rulers against the will of their people. If they want to engage in politics, let them resign from their positions. There are countless pressing matters that require their attention and leadership.”