TRADITIONAL POWERS AND SECURITY GOVERNANCE IN WEST AFRICA: HYBRIDIZATION OF LEGITIMACIES AND INSTITUTIONAL RESTRUCTURING

In a context of institutional fragility and rising cross-border threats, this paper analyzes the role of traditional authorities in security regulation in northern Benin. Based on qualitative research conducted in nine vulnerable communes across the Alibori and Atacora departments, the study highlights the forms of intervention of kings, land chiefs, religious dignitaries, and guardians of cults in conflict mediation, violence prevention, and territorial stabilization. Despite their historical and community legitimacy, these actors remain marginalized within state security mechanisms, even after the enactment of Law No. 2025-09, which legally regulates traditional chieftaincy. The analysis offers an anthropological and organizational perspective on the hybridization of legitimacies and argues for inclusive security governance based on cooperation between indigenous knowledge and republican norms.