A document circulating online has unveiled the salaries of traditional rulers in Southern Nigeria during the colonial period. Shared by media personality Bolanle Oni via Twitter, the document, dated January 1938, originates from the office of the Federal Ministry of Information, National Archive.
According to the disclosed figures, the Alaafin of Oyo commanded the highest salary, receiving €4,200, followed by the Alake of Egbaland with €2,250. The Awujale of Ijebu garnered €1,700, the Oba of Benin received €1,650, and the Ooni of Ife earned €1,400.
Additionally, salaries of second-class traditional rulers were outlined, including the Olubadan of Ibadan (€2,400), Owa of Ilesha (€1,450), Oshernowe of Ondo (€350), and Oragun of Ila (€200).
Reactions poured in on social media, with users expressing surprise and commentary on the historical context and implications of these salaries. Some questioned the disparity in payments between rulers, while others speculated on the currency conversion and the impact of inflation over time.
Debates also emerged regarding the significance of the salaries in relation to the commercial strength of their respective cities and towns during that era. References to historical accounts and books were made, suggesting a deeper exploration of the topic.
Moreover, discrepancies were noted regarding the titles of traditional rulers and the administrative structures of the time, prompting discussions on regional histories and colonial legacies.
Overall, the revelation of these salaries sheds light on the financial dynamics and power structures of Southern Nigerian traditional institutions during the colonial era, sparking conversations about their historical significance and contemporary relevance.
See document below,
