Background of the Study:
Traditional institutions in Nigeria have long played a pivotal role in community governance, social order, and the protection of cultural practices. These institutions, which include chiefs, traditional rulers, and local councils, are often deeply embedded in the fabric of society, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. In Kebbi State, and specifically in Birnin Kebbi, the traditional institution holds significant cultural and social sway, influencing everything from conflict resolution to the protection of individual rights (Garba & Usman, 2024). However, despite the prominence of these institutions, their role in protecting human rights, particularly in the context of modern human rights frameworks, remains understudied.
The role of traditional rulers in mediating disputes, ensuring security, and upholding justice in their communities is crucial, but their actions can sometimes conflict with national and international human rights standards. In Birnin Kebbi, as in many parts of Nigeria, traditional institutions face pressure to balance customary practices with the evolving legal and human rights landscape (Bello, 2023). For instance, traditional leaders often play a role in resolving disputes related to land rights, inheritance, and marriage, but their judgments may not always align with human rights principles such as gender equality or freedom from violence. This study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of traditional institutions in safeguarding human rights, especially focusing on issues such as gender-based violence, child protection, and community safety.
Statement of the Problem:
Although traditional institutions in Birnin Kebbi are integral to local governance, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of how these bodies contribute to or hinder the protection of human rights. Some scholars argue that traditional practices may sometimes contradict contemporary human rights standards, especially in areas such as women’s rights and children's rights (Oluwaseun, 2024). Additionally, with the growing influence of global human rights frameworks, there are concerns about the capacity of traditional leaders to adapt to new expectations for protecting fundamental freedoms. Without a clear assessment of their role in protecting human rights, it is difficult to measure the effectiveness of traditional institutions in promoting justice and equality within the community.
Objectives of the Study:
To evaluate the role of traditional institutions in protecting human rights in Birnin Kebbi.
To assess the challenges faced by traditional institutions in aligning customary practices with national human rights standards.
To examine the impact of traditional institutions on promoting gender equality and the protection of children’s rights in Birnin Kebbi.
Research Questions:
What is the role of traditional institutions in protecting human rights in Birnin Kebbi?
What challenges do traditional institutions face in aligning their practices with national human rights frameworks?
How effective are traditional institutions in addressing issues of gender equality and child protection in Birnin Kebbi?
Research Hypotheses:
Traditional institutions in Birnin Kebbi have a significant role in promoting human rights protection at the local level.
Traditional institutions face significant challenges in reconciling customary practices with modern human rights standards.
Traditional institutions in Birnin Kebbi are effective in protecting women’s rights and child welfare within their communities.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study will focus on the role of traditional institutions in protecting human rights within Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, with particular attention to gender-based violence, child protection, and the influence of customary laws. It will not explore the role of traditional institutions in other regions of Kebbi State. The study’s limitations include the possibility of bias in responses from traditional leaders who may be reluctant to criticize their own practices and challenges in obtaining accurate data due to a lack of formal documentation on traditional justice processes.
Definitions of Terms:
Traditional Institutions: Social and political structures that are rooted in customs, traditions, and cultural practices, typically headed by local rulers or elders.
Human Rights Protection: The safeguarding of individuals' rights and freedoms as recognized by national and international law, including the right to life, liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness.
Gender Equality: The state of equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities for individuals of all genders.
Background of the study
Career counseling is an essential component of secondary education, as it helps students make informed decisions...
Background of the Study
Chatbots, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), are increasingly being integrated into education...
Background of the Study
Ethnic conflicts have been a persistent challenge in Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt and n...
Shift work is a common practice in healthcare settings, ensu...
Background of the Study: Innovation ecosystems refer to the network of relationships, resources, and actors that contribute to the development and...
Background of the Study
In the contemporary business environment, knowledge sharing and organizational learning are crucial for sustainin...
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The production of information for insiders such as firm managers is known as m...
Background of the study:
Road transportation infrastructure plays a crucial role in determining healthcare accessibility, particularly in...
Background of the study
Public transport in Maiduguri LGA is a critical component of urban mobility, yet it is often beset...
Background of the study
Hashtag campaigns have emerged as powerful instruments in Nigerian political disco...