Renowned filmmaker and cultural advocate Tunde Kelani has articulated the complex nature of traditional leadership in the Jogbo community, suggesting that its governance requires a much higher degree of oversight than other prominent Nigerian regions.
In a commentary exploring the intricacies of traditional authority, Kelani used a series of metaphors to contrast the administrative demands of Jogbo with those of larger territories. He observed that while the Riverine region or Kaduna might be governed with “two eyes,” the Jogbo traditional system requires “12 eyes” to maintain order. Similarly, he noted that while Ibadan and Lagos can be ruled with “two mouths,” Jogbo necessitates “18 mouths” to ensure effective representation and communication.
The filmmaker also compared the administrative grasp required for different territories, stating that while one can hold Ekiti and Egba with “two hands,” the governance of Jogbo demands a far more expansive approach. These observations, which appeared in a piece on Tribune Online, focus on the symbolic importance of the sacred gong and the multifaceted roles of Jogbo’s chiefs.
Traditional hierarchy and communal oversight
The commentary touches on the fundamental differences between modern centralised administration and the decentralised, collective nature of traditional Yoruba governance. In many Yoruba communities, power is not vested in a single individual but is distributed across a council of chiefs, lineage heads, and titled elders. This structure acts as a system of checks and balances, requiring constant consultation and consensus-building.
The “eyes” and “mouths” Kelani refers to represent the necessity for vigilance and diverse voices within this traditional hierarchy. In a community like Jogbo, the requirement for “18 mouths” suggests a governance model where various subgroups and interest groups must be heard to maintain stability. This stands in contrast to the more streamlined executive models found in modern Nigerian state governance. The requirement for multiple “eyes” implies that oversight is a collective responsibility shared among the various chiefs to prevent the concentration of power.
The mention of the sacred gong points to the ritualistic and cultural foundations that underpin this authority. In traditional settings, such instruments are often used to summon chiefs, announce decisions, or signal the presence of authority, serving as a vital link between the spiritual and the political realms.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the intersection of modern democracy and ancient customs, the complexities described by Kelani reflect the challenges of reconciling communal traditions with modern administrative expectations. The ability of these traditional structures to manage diverse interests remains a key factor in local community stability and land administration.
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