In Nigeria, traditional rulers have from time immemorial been the closest to the people.
They have a stronghold in their various locations and bring about peace and orderliness among the people.
Here are the top 10 most powerful Kings in Nigeria
The Emir of Kano
His Royal Highness Mallam Muhammad Sanusi II is currently the Emir of Kano. He heads the entire Kano Emirate and is loved passionately by his people.
He became the successor of Alhaji Dr. Ado Bayero who ruled for 51 years.
Before becoming the Emir, Mallam Sanusi was a renowned banker and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Alaafin of Oyo
Among the most powerful and influential monarchial titles attainable in Nigeria is the position of the Alaafin of Oyo. The ruling Alaafin of Oyo is Lamidi Olayiwola III, who is the successor of AlaafinGbadegesi Ladigbolu II. This position is very powerful and the title owner until recently was also the Chairman of the Council of Obas and the Chiefs in Oyo State. This was however changed by the former Governor of Oyo State, Adebayo Alao-Akala, and a rotational arrangement was adopted.
Sultan of Sokoto
As far back as the era of the British, the position of the Sultan has been held in high esteem. The Sultan is also known to be the spiritual leader to the Muslims in Nigeria. The current Sultan is Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar IV; he was the successor of his late brother Muhammadu Maccido who lost his life in the ADC Airline flight 53 flight.
Ooni of Ile-Ife
The current Ooni of Ile-Ife is Ooni Okunade Adele Sijuwade (now late) and is the ruler of the dynasty of Ife, which has been in existent for many years. This powerful ruler is known to play a strong role in determining who becomes the governor of Osun state.
Dein of Agbor
The ruling King is called Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi and he ascented the throne when he was just four months after the death of his father thus he became the youngest monarch to ascend a royal throne. He is known as the Officer in the order of the crown.
Oba of Benin
The Oba of Benin is also referred to as the Omo N’Oba. The current Oba of Benin is Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Erediauwa (now late) and he is the ruler of the Edo people. His power stretches to politicians too and he is often called upon by politicians to intervene in important political issues.
Oba of Lagos
This is the traditional ruler and ceremonial head of one of the largest cities in Africa. The current Oba of Lagos is his Royal Highness Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu and is also referred to as the Eleko of Eko.
Olu of Warri
The Kingdom of Warri is currently under the rule of Godwin Toju Emiko. He is a lawyer by profession and has held several important positions in Warri. He is the head of the Itsekiri people.
Obi of Onitsha
Currently sitting on the throne is Igwe Nnayelugo Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe and he is the traditional ruler and Obi of Onitsha people. He is often widely consulted and has made tremendous contributions to the development of his people.
Olubadan of Ibadan
This title is prominent and highly influential and is currently held by Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade. He has a strong hold in Ibadan land and calls political leaders to order on issues such as corruption and violence.