Middle Belt elders kick against regionalism

From Noah Ebije, Kaduna

The Middle Belt Council of Elders have kicked against the call by some Nigerians that the country should return to the regional system of government, saying it would give majority ethnic groups the upper hand to marginalise the minority tribes.

A statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Elders’ Council, Gen. Lekwot Zamani and the Secretary, Jonathan Tsaku, however, supported true federalism with states under the zones as the federating units, as recommended by the 2014 National Conference, saying it is the most cost effective option.

“Given the complex nature of our diverse federation, the call by some people for a return to regionalism is untenable. Under such a system before the coup in January 1966, the minorities were seriously marginalised by the major ethnic groups. Since change is the progressive phenomenon that makes life interesting, true federalism with the states under the zones as the federating units vide the 2014 National Conference recommendation is the most cost effective option which we fully support.

“Creating a few more states with boundary adjustments, where necessary, will bring government to every nook and cranny of the federation to enhance purposeful development, peace and tranquility, where the states will take charge of their resources and contribute to the Federal Government as was the case before. This will give vent to a healthy competition among the states and infuse a deep sense of belonging and patriotism in everyone.

“The vast agricultural land, huge natural resources and the creative talents that abound in the states will then be properly harnessed to free us from the shackles of poverty and insecurity, by providing employment for the teeming youths. This is what the call for re-structuring, which should be set in motion without further delay, is all about.

“May God guide our leaders to mend their ways to assuage the current anguish that has overwhelmed us so that Nigeria can take her pride of place in the comity of nations soon,” the statement said.