The Senate has passed for second reading a Bill for an Act to Establish the National Council for Traditional Rulers in order to accord formal recognition to the roles of traditional rulers in the country.
The bill, which was sponsored by Senator Simon Lalong, representing Plateau South Senatorial District, generated debate among senators, primarily to avoid conflict of responsibilities with elected political officers at the Local Government Councils.
Lalong, who is the former governor of Plateau State, expressed that traditional rulers are now well-educated, and their advice and opinions on insecurity and other national issues could help the government in meeting the yearnings of citizens.
On his part, the Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized that the bill should clearly spell out the functions of traditional rulers, adding that a public hearing should be conducted to elicit opinions and perspectives before it is brought for a third reading.
The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Establishment to report back in four weeks.