It Will Speed Up Socio-Economic Development – South West Senators
…What We Need Are Institutions To Guarantee Justice, Equity – Ali Ndume
…Regionalism Not Matter For Constitution Review – Bamidele Opeyemi
Senators from northern Nigeria have strongly opposed calls for a return to the regional system of government, stating that the model did not benefit their region when it was previously in practice.
This stance emerged during the ongoing constitutional review process, which began with a two-day retreat organized by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) in Kano.
Several northern lawmakers expressed their reservations to journalists, arguing that their region saw little development under the regional system during the First Republic. This position contrasts sharply with the views of many southern senators, who support the idea of regionalism.
Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, made it clear that his constituents would not endorse regional governance. “My people did not experience any development under the old regional government system based in Kaduna,” Ningi stated. “We aren’t going back there. My constituency stands for either a reformed Nigerian federation or nothing.”
Ningi emphasized the importance of reforming the current federal structure, advocating for a more robust form of fiscal federalism. He also dismissed claims that certain groups could claim to represent ethnic interests in the National Assembly without a clear mandate from the people.
Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, clarified that the creation of zonal development commissions should not be mistaken for a step toward regionalism. He stressed that these commissions were focused solely on economic and social development within specific geopolitical zones.
Former Senate Leader Ali Ndume echoed these sentiments, suggesting that true federalism is no longer relevant, as many African nations have abandoned it. Instead, he called for the establishment of strong institutions that promote justice, equity, and accountability.
Similarly, Senator Muntari Dandutse from Katsina South, while dismissing regionalism, noted that the ongoing retreat is aimed at addressing flaws in the current constitution. He emphasized the importance of utilizing Nigeria’s resources effectively, stating, “Every part of this country is blessed. What we need is good governance.”
On the other hand, Southern Senators supported the agitation for regional governance, arguing that it would boost economic development and reduce corruption by decentralizing power. Senator Abdulfatai Buhari of Oyo North highlighted the success of regional resource management during the First Republic. “The North thrived with groundnut pyramids, while the South West was known for cocoa,” he said, noting the advantages of regional governance.
However, Senate Leader Bamidele Opeyemi cautioned that such significant changes require more than constitutional amendments, stressing the need for political consensus and widespread public support before any transition to regionalism could occur. He explained, “It’s not something we can resolve through a bill. It requires the backing of the Nigerian people themselves.”
As discussions continue, it is evident that northern and southern lawmakers remain deeply divided on the issue of regional governance and its place in Nigeria’s future.
