Traditional Institutions in Nigeria. The Role of the Traditional Institution to the Development of Iyah-Gbede

Abstract or Introduction

Traditional institutions are formed to play a vital role in the society, this research work examines "the role/impact of the traditional institution to the development of Iyah-Gbede, Ijumu land of Kogi state, 1976-2019". This paper is an attempt to examine how the various components of the traditional institutions has play their role in the development of the Iyah-Gbede community in Kogi state with little or no government assistance. It aims to showcase the relevance of the pre-colonial institutions in the modern day.

In the view of Ayeni as man gradually evolved into sophisticated beings and a settled lifestyle, engaged in socio-political organizations, it was only natural that they developed distinct political cultures and institutions, which in turn influenced development and growth in their locality. By these institutions, they were able to control social vices through their cultures and the established rules and regulations laid down by their ancestors. The objectives of this study are to examine the origins of Iyah-Gbede, critically look at the structure and formation of Iyah-Gbede traditional institutions and to assess the role it has play in the development of the town from 1976-2019. The methodology of the research work entails the use of primary and secondary sources.

Information on African traditional institutions in the modern era is very scanty, especially when it comes to matter of security and development. Even, though most African nations like Nigeria still retain the traditional institutions, it however fail to give in any roles in the constitution.