Traditional Oaths for Politicians
The recent call by traditionalists in Ondo State for political officeholders to take traditional oaths as a means to combat corruption presents a complex and contentious issue that merits critical examination.
On the surface, the suggestion by Ayobami Ogedemgbe, the Araba Awo of Okeagbe, might seem like an innovative approach to addressing Nigeria’s pervasive corruption problem. The idea leverages cultural beliefs and practices that still hold significant sway in parts of the country. Ogedemgbe’s assertion that “no Yoruba person will go against Ayelala or doubt the efficacy of Ogun” speaks to the deep-rooted respect for traditional deities in Yoruba culture.
However, this proposal raises several concerning issues:
Constitutional Secularity: Nigeria is constitutionally a secular state. Implementing traditional religious oaths in official government processes would be a direct violation of this principle and could lead to significant legal challenges.
Religious Diversity: Nigeria is a multi-religious country. Mandating traditional Yoruba oaths would exclude and potentially discriminate against politicians from other faith backgrounds, including Christians, Muslims, and adherents of other traditional beliefs.
Modernization and Governance: Relying on traditional oaths as a governance tool could be seen as a regression from modern, evidence-based approaches to combating corruption. It might undermine efforts to strengthen institutional checks and balances.
Efficacy and Enforcement: The effectiveness of such oaths in preventing corruption is questionable. Many corrupt officials already take oaths of office on religious texts without deterrent effect. How would violations of traditional oaths be legally enforced?
Cultural Imperialism: Implementing this in a diverse state like Ondo, let alone at a national level, could be perceived as an imposition of Yoruba cultural practices on other ethnic groups.
International Perception: Such a move could affect Nigeria’s image on the global stage, potentially impacting diplomatic relations and foreign investment.
While the frustration with corruption that motivates this suggestion is understandable, the proposal itself is problematic. It oversimplifies the complex issue of corruption and ignores the root causes, such as weak institutions, lack of transparency, and inadequate law enforcement.
Instead of reverting to traditional practices, efforts should focus on strengthening existing anti-corruption institutions, improving transparency in government processes, ensuring swift and impartial justice for corrupt officials, and fostering a culture of accountability through civic education.
The Traditional Oaths for Politicians suggestion also raises questions about the role of traditional institutions in modern governance. While these institutions can play important cultural and community roles, their direct involvement in formal governance processes needs careful consideration to avoid conflicts with constitutional principles.
Traditional Oaths for Politicians conclusion, while the intention behind this proposal may be sincere, its implementation would likely create more problems than it solves. Addressing corruption requires a multifaceted approach that strengthens democratic institutions and the rule of law, rather than relying on traditional religious practices that may not be universally accepted or legally enforceable.
Reference
Corruption: ”I do not think any Yoruba person will go against Ayelala or doubt the efficacy of Ogun”- Ondo traditionalists call for traditional oath swearing for politicians published in Linda Ikejis blog