Abstract

This article looks at the removal and deposition of chiefs in Nigeria, both during the pre-colonial, colonial and post-colonial era. We examine the arbitrary nature of the removal and deposition of the chiefs, especially in the colonial and post-colonial regimes where non-adherence to the rule of natural justice took place, whereby chiefs’ offences were not made known until after their removals and banishment. We conclude that chiefs are citizens of Nigeria who are equally entitled to the protection of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 and other laws of the nation. The constitutional and human rights of chiefs should not be compromised, even if they are to be removed. Banishment or deportation of chiefs should not be done without the order of a court of competent jurisdiction, while reparation should be made to those chiefs who have been unjustly and arbitrarily treated.