Nigerian Senators Divided Over Call for Return to Regional Government

 

Nigerian senators from both the southern and northern regions have expressed opposing views regarding calls to return to a regional system of government. The discussions occurred during a two-day retreat on amendments to the 1999 Constitution, organized by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) in Kano.

Senators from the northern region strongly opposed the idea, while their southern counterparts welcomed it, suggesting it could boost the economy, address insecurity, and improve infrastructure.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele clarified that regionalism is not part of the current constitution review. He emphasized that amending the constitution would require broad political consensus, making such a change unlikely at this time.

Bauchi Central Senator Abdul Ningi voiced strong opposition, stating that his people did not benefit from the regional system during the First Republic and would not support a return to it. He called for reform of the current federal structure and fiscal federalism rather than a regional system.

Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, echoed this sentiment, stating that the creation of zonal development commissions should not be confused with regionalism. He argued that these commissions focus on social and economic development and are not steps toward regional governance.

Former Senate Leader Ali Ndume also dismissed the idea of returning to true federalism, citing that many African countries have moved away from it. He advocated for stronger institutions to promote good governance and curb corruption and insecurity.

On the other hand, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari from Oyo North supported the idea of regional governance, recalling that the regions were able to effectively manage their resources during the First Republic. He argued that making the center less attractive could reduce corruption.

Despite these differing opinions, Bamidele emphasized that constitutional changes on such issues would require a broader political agreement and the involvement of Nigerians in the decision-making process.