Tension as Northern and Southern Lawmakers Clash Over New Proposal for Regional Government
By Wisdom Tide
September 29, 2024
The proposal for a return to a regional system of government has ignited a clash between Northern and Southern Nigerian lawmakers, as discussions intensify during a constitutional review. Senators from both regions expressed their divergent views during a two-day retreat organized by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) in Kano.
While Southern lawmakers have welcomed the idea as a path to economic revitalization and enhanced security, their Northern counterparts have vehemently opposed it, citing the failures of the system in the past. The Senate leadership, however, emphasized that regionalism is not part of the ongoing constitution review process.
Differing Views on Regionalism
Opposition from the Northern Senators
Northern senators, led by Senator Abdul Ningi from Bauchi Central Senatorial District, have been resolute in their opposition to the idea of regional governance. According to Senator Ningi, the return to regionalism is not a solution for Nigeria, especially given the historical experience of the Northern region during the First Republic. He argued that the regional government of the past did not bring development to his constituency, which was then under the jurisdiction of the Kaduna-based regional administration.
Ningi further questioned the legitimacy of those advocating for regionalism, stating, “It is not enough for anyone to claim they represent an ethnic group without a clear mandate.” He maintained that only elected members of the National Assembly have the authority to amend the constitution, dismissing the proponents of regionalism as pushing false ideas. “My people are satisfied with the current federal structure and we want reforms within this system, not a return to regional government,” Ningi emphasized.
Southern Senators’ Support for Regionalism
Contrary to their Northern colleagues, Southern lawmakers see regionalism as a path to national growth. Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, representing Oyo North Senatorial District, argued that regional governments were highly successful during the First Republic, enabling each region to harness its unique resources. He referenced the agricultural successes of the time, such as the groundnut pyramids in the North and cocoa production in the South West, asserting that regionalism would reduce corruption by decentralizing power.
“When the center is less attractive, there is less corruption. Regions will manage their resources more effectively,” Senator Buhari argued. He also suggested that the South West has an agenda for the constitution review, which would be revealed at the appropriate time.
The Case for Regionalism: A Path to True Federalism
The Historical Success of Regional Governance
Proponents of regional governance highlight the successes of the system during the First Republic, when regions had greater autonomy over their resources and development strategies. This system fostered competition and allowed for the efficient management of resources, leading to economic growth in various parts of the country. Supporters argue that a return to this system could unlock Nigeria’s potential, as regions would be incentivized to develop their infrastructure, industries, and human capital.
Decentralization and Economic Empowerment
Regionalism, according to its supporters, offers a solution to the over-centralization of power in Nigeria’s federal system. By decentralizing power, regions would have greater control over their resources, encouraging innovation and economic growth. This system would also address issues of marginalization, as each region would have the autonomy to develop based on its unique needs and capabilities. Senator Buhari articulated this by saying, “We were able to harness our resources in the past, and we can do it again.”
Improved Security and Governance
Another key argument for regionalism is its potential to improve governance and security. By empowering local leaders with more control, the system would enhance accountability and allow for more targeted approaches to security challenges. Regional governments would be better positioned to address the specific needs of their populations, leading to more effective governance.
Criticism of Regionalism: Concerns from Northern Lawmakers
Lack of Development in the North Under Regional Government
Northern lawmakers like Senator Abdul Ningi have raised concerns about the feasibility of regionalism, particularly given the historical context. According to Ningi, the Northern region did not benefit from regional governance during the First Republic, as it was marginalized in terms of development. He stressed that the current federal structure, while imperfect, offers a better framework for equitable development across all regions. Ningi also pointed out that any discussion on changing the system must be based on a broad mandate from the people, which he believes is currently lacking for the regionalism debate.
Regionalism Not a Modern Solution
Other critics, such as former Senate Leader Ali Ndume, argue that regionalism is outdated and no longer relevant in modern governance. Ndume contended that many African countries have moved away from federalism, instead focusing on building strong institutions that promote good governance, equity, and justice. “What Nigeria needs are strong institutions that will enhance governance, not a return to an outdated system,” Ndume asserted.
The Road to True Federalism
Regionalism as a Path to True Federalism
Supporters of regionalism see it as the only way to achieve true federalism in Nigeria. They argue that the current federal system concentrates too much power and resources at the center, leading to inefficiency, corruption, and underdevelopment. By shifting power back to the regions, proponents believe that true federalism can be realized, where each region has the autonomy to chart its own path to development.
Reforms to the Current Federal Structure
Opponents of regionalism, particularly from the North, advocate for reforms within the existing federal system rather than a complete overhaul. They believe that the solution lies in improving governance, strengthening institutions, and ensuring equitable resource distribution. According to Senator Ningi, “What we need is reform of the current Federal Government structure and fiscal federalism because there is nothing like true federalism.”
Conclusion: Is Regionalism the Answer?
The debate over regionalism continues to divide Nigerian lawmakers along regional lines. While Southern lawmakers see it as a solution to Nigeria’s economic and governance challenges, Northern lawmakers remain skeptical, citing historical experiences and the need for reforms within the current federal structure. The proposal for regional governance may be popular in certain regions, but its success depends on building political consensus and gaining the support of the Nigerian people.
For many, regionalism represents the path to true federalism, offering a system that empowers regions, encourages competition, and reduces corruption. Whether this is the right path for Nigeria remains to be seen, but the debate has once again brought the issue of federalism to the forefront of national discourse
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