Senator Lalong’s Bill On Establishment Of National Council Of Traditional Rulers Scales First Reading At Senate

Towards ensuring that Traditional Institutions in Nigeria are given defined constitutional roles to enable them do more in addressing the nation’s challenges, the National Council of Traditional Rulers (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 546) sponsored by Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Bako Lalong has scaled first reading at the Senate.

The bill which was read on the floor of the Senate by the Clerk is targeted at ensuring that Traditional rulers in the country are given constitutional responsibilities in addressing the nation’s challenges.

Senator Lalong who was former Governor of Plateau State and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum had during his term advocated together with his colleagues and members of the 9th National Assembly, for the inclusion of roles for Traditional Rulers in the constitution.

The attempt to pass the Bill did not succeed hence the renewed effort by Senator Lalong to present the Bill again for consideration and passage.

Already, Senator Lalong has sensitised and engaged his colleagues and various Traditional Rulers across the country and other stakeholders to ensure that the Bill receives a smooth sail.

According to him, the passage of the Bill will help tackle burning issues like insecurity using the Traditional Institutions which are closest to the people.

It will also help address issues relating to peace building, inter-community frictions, land and other socio-cultural problems which are easily handled by the Traditional rulers.

The Bill when read for the second time is expected to be referred to the relevant committees for public hearing where a robust engagement will be carried out towards its passage into law.