Africa Press-Nigeria:
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday called on traditional rulers to support his administration in addressing the demands of Nigerian youths.
Buhari made the call during his meeting with a delegation of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria led by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji (Dr) Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The President told the royal fathers that “we have heard the loud cries of our youth and children, and we are attending to their concerns.”
A statement by Buhari’s spokesman, Femi Adesina quoted the president as saying: “To succeed in all of this, we would require your support and voice to help amplify the message. Your proximity to the people places you in a unique position to communicate and ensure that our response is targeted and impactful.”
Describing their role as guardians of our traditional values and culture as most critical, the President urged them not to “compromise their neutrality because this is what significantly confers on you, your moral authority and legitimacy.”
Buhari pointed out that his Chief of Staff, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, would lead senior government officials to various parts of the country “and directly engage with you as part of this process. He will be reporting back to me on your various perspectives.
He said: “I want to once again thank you for the role you all have played to calm down our youth with wisdom and authority. By instilling hope and keeping the peace, you have rendered the country great service.
“We cannot allow anybody or group to threaten the peace or sabotage these efforts,” the President restated that “strong, transparent efforts are underway to address those rogue elements of the Nigerian Police Force. Simultaneously, the Nigerian Police Force will also undergo much needed reform that covers welfare, working conditions, and code of conduct. That will usher in a more professional workforce.”
Recognizing the primary and important role of the monarchs in helping to maintain peace and security in the country, the President expressed delight at their visit “given all that has happened recently in our country.”
