International Journal of Culture and History ISSN 2332-5518 2019, Vol. 6, No. 2 17 Succession Under Customary Law in Nigeria. The Rule of Primogeniture versus the Deposition of a Traditional Ruler (Onojie) in Edo State: A critique of the Provisions of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edicts No 16 of 1979 Mr Paul Okhaide Itua (Corresponding author) Department of Commercial and Industrial Law, Ambrose Alli University P.M.B. 14, Ekpoma Edo State, Nigeria E- mail: Paulitua@aauekpoma.edu.ng Received: July 22, 2019 Accepted: August 14, 2019 Published: September 25, 2019 doi:10.5296/ijch.v6i2.15125 URL: https://doi.org /10.5296/ijch.v6i2.15125 Abstract Before the advent of colonial administration in the area, which is presently known as Nigeria, there existed a people occupying vast areas of territories, which were traditionally dominated by highly diverse ethnic groups with highly sophisticated language systems. Apart from the variation in the languages, there also exist shape differences in terms of customs and traditions. However, with the amalgamation of the southern and northern protectorate by Lord Frederick Lugard the former Governor-General of Nigeria in 1914 these territories were brought together for the convenience of British Colonial Administration. The new territory was called Nigeria. In furtherance of their quest for effective colonial administration, the British used to their advantage the traditional institutions that were well established in the country. Although traditional structures differ considerately from one ethnic group to another, but it was a common feature for these various ethnic groups to have their own established traditional institution with a recognised ruler, who may in turn be subordinate to the ruler of a larger community. The procedure regulating succession to the throne of these various traditional institutions are well defined by customs and traditions. These traditional ruler exercises absolute powers, and wade considerable influence in the affairs concerning their area of jurisdiction. However since the attainment of Independence in 1960, and followed by alternating between Military rule and civilian administration saw the decline and in some