A CALL FOR THE REVIEW OF THE BAYELSA STATE CHIEFTAINCY LAW. By Dickson John Endunana

[Abigail pereowei]

It is my sincere wish and desire that His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, considers reviewing the Bayelsa State Chieftaincy Law before the end of his tenure.

The intent of the Chieftaincy Law, when first enacted, may have been noble, aimed at preserving our traditional institutions, strengthening community leadership, and maintaining cultural heritage. However, in practical terms, the law has done more harm than good. Rather than promoting peace, order, and accountability, it has in several cases created an atmosphere where certain community chiefs assume an untouchable status.

This unhealthy development has weakened the effectiveness of community constitutions, silenced the collective will of the people, and in some instances, promoted disunity. Chiefs, who are supposed to be custodians of tradition and community values, now wield unchecked powers, often to the detriment of their subjects. This imbalance undermines the principles of justice, fairness, and participatory governance at the grassroots level.

A review of the Chieftaincy Law is therefore not just timely but necessary. Such a review should be aimed at:

1. RESTORING ACCOUNTABILITY. Chiefs must be accountable to their communities and not operate above the law.

2. STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY CONSTITUTIONS.
The voice of the people, as expressed in their constitutions, should have binding force and not be relegated to the background.

3. BALANCING AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY.
While traditional rulers should be accorded respect, their powers must be exercised within clear limits to prevent abuse.

4. PROMOTING PEACE AND UNITY. The law should encourage cooperation between community leaders, indigenes, and government institutions rather than foster division.

By revisiting this law, Governor Douye Diri will not only be addressing a long-standing challenge but also etching his name in history as a leader who valued fairness, inclusivity, and sustainable peace in Bayelsa State. Such a legacy will outlive his tenure and serve as a guiding light for future administrations.

The time has come to correct the flaws and restore dignity, justice, and balance to our traditional institutions. Bayelsa State deserves a Chieftaincy Law that works for the people, not against them.

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