Bill For National Council Of Traditional Rulers Scales 2nd Reading

A bill aimed at establishing a National Council of Traditional Rulers has successfully passed its first reading in the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday, October 8.

The bill was sponsored by Senator Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau South. The National Council of Traditional Rulers (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 546) seeks to define constitutional roles for traditional institutions to better address national challenges.

The bill was presented on the Senate floor by the Clerk and aims to empower traditional rulers with constitutional responsibilities in tackling issues such as insecurity, peace-building, and inter-community disputes.

Senator Lalong, a former governor of Plateau State and Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum has been a long-time advocate for the inclusion of traditional rulers in the constitutional framework.

Previous attempts to pass similar legislation faced challenges, prompting Lalong to renew efforts for its consideration. He has engaged with fellow senators, traditional rulers, and stakeholders to garner support for the bill.

Once read a second time, the bill is expected to be sent to relevant committees for public hearings, allowing for further discussions before its potential passage into law.