Regent Tinuade Babalola, the regent of Iboropa Kingdom in Ondo State, Nigeria, has expressed her concern over the poor salaries provided to traditional rulers, particularly regents, by the state government. She highlighted that regents often receive meager remunerations, with her highest pay during her regency being N40,000.
The regent pointed out that regents are essentially interim rulers and should enjoy the honors and privileges associated with the office of an Oba (king). However, the reality is quite different, as regents do not receive all the benefits that come with the position. She highlighted the lack of an official car and the absence of compensation after her regency as examples of the challenges faced by regents.
Tinuade, who served as regent from February 2015 to December 2021, emphasized that the government should provide compensation to regents after their tenure, similar to the compensation received by government officials after their time in office. She believes this would help regents transition more smoothly and establish businesses to sustain themselves after their regency.
She also called for the government to consider female kings and create action plans that cater to their needs. Tinuade’s own journey as a regent was not without challenges, but she drew motivation from her mother, family members, and friends. She noted that during her regency, she was able to contribute to community development, including providing food palliatives during the COVID-19 pandemic.