The Influence of Traditional Governance in Local Government Administration in Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Traditional governance in Nigeria, marked by the roles of Obas, Chiefs, and Community Councils, remains a vital component of local authority. These structures influence decisions on land matters, dispute resolution, cultural preservation, community mobilisation, and political education. However, this institution in modern governance has been subject to the formal administration of local government. The study focused on the effect of traditional governance on local government administration in Ondo State of Nigeria using Akure North and Owo Local Government Areas as a case study. A mixed-method approach was adopted, and a multistage sampling procedure was employed to select participants. Akure North and Owo Local Government Areas (LGAs) were purposively selected as representatives of Ondo Central and Ondo North Senatorial Districts of Ondo State, Nigeria. A total of 173 questionnaires were retrieved and analysed from the questionnaires distributed and 12 key traditional rulers from both local government areas were interviewed. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were used. Findings indicated that traditional governance contributed significantly to political responsibilities, with respondents affirming that traditional leaders effectively represent community interests (81.2%), contributed to local policy formulation and implementation (78.5%), and remain accountable to their communities (79.8%). In terms of economic responsibilities, traditional institutions were perceived to facilitate social amenities (77.7%), lobby for development projects (80.2%), promote local economic development (80%), and facilitate trade and commerce (82.3%). The Friedman test confirmed that variations in economic roles were significant (χ² = 14.581, p < .05), while political roles exhibited no significant differences (χ² = 8.221, p > .05). Findings further showed the positive influence of traditional governance structures on decision-making and policy implementation in areas such as elections (87.6%), infrastructure development (82%), and economic strategies (73.7%), as well as in social welfare, youth engagement, and conflict resolution, with averaged support across items at 79.2%. The chi-square test confirmed this influence (χ² = 179.060, p < .05). The study finally showed that traditional governance is a significant force in the governance of local government in the locality of the study (Akure North and Owo Local Government Areas of Ondo State) and recommended that there should be an integrated management of traditional governance and local government in the study area that will ensure that there is less conflict, better governance and better grassroot development.