Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has cautioned traditional rulers against conferring chieftaincy titles on serving government officials and members of their immediate families.
Sani made the remarks following the installation of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Dan Zaki Gwandu by the Emir of Gwandu, Muhammadu Bashar, in Kebbi State.
The traditional title was conferred on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, during a ceremony held at the historic Abdullahi Fodiyo Palace in Birnin Kebbi.
Reacting to the development in a social media post, the former senator argued that traditional honours should be reserved for public officials after they have completed their time in government.
According to Sani, extending such recognition to individuals currently holding positions of influence, or their family members, could raise concerns about the independence and neutrality of traditional institutions.
He wrote:
“People in Government and their family members should not be given traditional titles until they leave office; then they can be appreciated for their service with a title. That’s my opinion.”
The title, Dan Zaki Gwandu, translates to “Son of the Lion of Gwandu”.
The Emir of Gwandu reportedly based the decision to honour Seyi Tinubu on his philanthropic activities, support for less privileged people and contributions to community development.
According to reports from the emirate, the recognition also acknowledges his involvement in humanitarian initiatives and efforts to improve the lives of members of the community.
TINUBU CONGRATULATES HIS SON
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has congratulated his son on receiving the traditional title.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed appreciation to the Emir of Gwandu and the emirate council for the recognition.
Tinubu described the honour as significant, noting that it represented friendship, mutual respect and unity among Nigeria’s diverse communities.
The President also acknowledged Seyi’s involvement in youth engagement, community development and empowerment initiatives, particularly through the City Boy Movement.
Speaking as a father, Tinubu said he was pleased that his son had been recognised by a traditional institution with a distinguished history.
However, he reminded him that receiving such an honour came with responsibilities, urging him to remain humble and demonstrate the values of courage, leadership and service associated with the title.
The President further encouraged Seyi to use the recognition as an opportunity to strengthen his commitment to youth development, peaceful coexistence and national service.
He also wished him wisdom and strength as he assumes the responsibilities associated with the title.
A HISTORY OF TRADITIONAL RECOGNITION
The latest honour is not the first traditional title conferred on Seyi Tinubu.
In December 2025, he was installed as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, in Oyo State.
The latest development has, however, drawn attention to the relationship between traditional institutions and political power, particularly regarding the practice of conferring traditional honours on serving public officials and their relatives.
While President Tinubu has welcomed the recognition given to his son, Shehu Sani’s comments have reopened discussions about whether such honours should be reserved until public officials have completed their time in government.
