The Ezeoha II of Ehume Autonomous Community, Obowo, and Vice Chairman of the Obowo Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness Eze Chidi Kingsley Anyadike, has called for the constitutional recognition and formal integration of traditional rulers into Nigeria’s governance structure as part of the ongoing constitutional review process.
The monarch made the appeal through his representative, Chief Chris Uwadoka (Nnanyerugo Ehume), while delivering an address as the Royal Father of the Day at the Chrisland College Katampe Language, Art and Culture Day held under the theme, “Beauty in Diversity, Strength in Unity.”
Addressing students, parents, teachers and other distinguished guests, the royal father commended the management of Chrisland College for promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage through education, describing the annual cultural celebration as a strategic initiative aimed at nurturing patriotism, national identity and respect for indigenous values among young Nigerians.
He said the event transcended cultural entertainment, noting that it represents an investment in nation-building through the preservation of languages, arts and cultural traditions.
Reflecting on the event’s theme, His Royal Highness Anyadike described Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity as a blessing that should be embraced to strengthen national unity and sustainable development rather than viewed as a source of division.
He stressed that unity does not require cultural uniformity, maintaining that Nigerians can preserve their individual cultural identities while working together to promote peace, mutual respect and national progress.
The monarch also used the occasion to urge the National Assembly and other stakeholders involved in the constitutional amendment process to assign clearly defined constitutional responsibilities to traditional institutions.
According to him, traditional rulers remain the closest authorities to the grassroots, serving as custodians of culture, mediators in communal disputes, promoters of peace and guardians of societal values.
He argued that granting constitutional roles to traditional institutions would enhance grassroots security, strengthen conflict resolution mechanisms, improve community development and contribute to lasting national stability.
His Royal Highness Anyadike maintained that national unity would remain incomplete if traditional institutions, which form the foundation of many communities, continue to operate outside the country’s formal governance framework.
He further encouraged students to remain proud of their cultural heritage while striving for global excellence.
“A tree without roots cannot withstand the wind. Be proud of your heritage. You can become global citizens while remaining authentically African and authentically Nigerian,” he advised.
The royal father expressed appreciation to the management of Chrisland College for sustaining the annual cultural celebration and expressed optimism that the values of unity, inclusiveness and patriotism showcased during the event would inspire young Nigerians to become responsible and visionary leaders.
The event featured colourful cultural displays highlighting Nigeria’s diversity through traditional attire, indigenous languages, music, dance and artistic performances. International cultural presentations from Kenya, New Zealand and Morocco further reinforced the programme’s message that diversity remains one of humanity’s greatest strengths.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Kenyan High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Isaac Keen Parashina, the Director-General of the Nigerian Council for Arts and Culture, the Traditional Ruler of Katampe in the Federal Capital Territory, and several other prominent guests.
