CHRICED: Market Leadership not for political patronage

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has cautioned against politicising traditional market leadership in Nigeria, urging that any reform in market administration must respect indigenous systems and cultural values.

In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Comrade Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, CHRICED commended the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, for upholding the kingdom’s traditional process of appointing market leaders amid debates over the introduction of an Iyaloja structure in Edo State.

Zikirullahi described the monarch’s stance as a “principled defence” of cultural identity and local governance, stressing that the Benin system of market administration has, for centuries, been guided by the Iyeki — leaders chosen by traders and confirmed by the Palace.

“The Benin system of market leadership reflects centuries of self-regulation and community trust. Any modification of such systems should emerge from broad consultation and cultural sensitivity, not external imposition,” Zikirullahi stated.

CHRICED urged stakeholders to ensure that discussions on market reforms or leadership appointments are guided by transparency, accountability, and respect for traditional authority. The group warned that attempts to centralise market leadership structures could erode local participation and undermine established governance systems.

“Decentralised models like that of the Benin Kingdom encourage shared responsibility and inclusion. They should be preserved as part of Nigeria’s diverse heritage,” the organisation emphasised.

The civic group also called on civil society organisations and traditional rulers to promote dialogue that fosters harmony between cultural traditions and democratic governance. It noted that sustainable national unity can only be achieved through justice, inclusiveness, and respect for cultural diversity.

“Nigeria’s diversity is a source of strength. Any reform of traditional or civic institutions must be inclusive, transparent, and grounded in respect for cultural identity,” CHRICED concluded.