The Nigerian Senate is considering a bill that proposes a return to regional government, expected to be passed into law by October 1, 2024. The draft, circulating on social media, is titled “A Bill for an Act to Substitute the Annexure to Decree 24 of 1999 with a New Governance Model for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The bill, once implemented, would be known as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024. Advocates argue that the current 1999 Constitution lacks legitimacy as it was not derived from the agreement of the Nigerian people. They propose that the amendment be subjected to a vote.
Also, the bill outlines a shift from the existing federal structure to a federal/regional system of government, allowing ethnic groups within states to manage their affairs. It emphasizes the right to self-determination and equitable representation in federal and regional governments.
A northern social media influencers have expressed opposition to the bill. Comrade Abiyo Roni from Jigawa State stated, “As a Northerner, I will never support Regional Government. The North has been left behind in political, economic, and educational development.”
And then, Sarki, another influencer, argued that the North is currently disadvantaged and needs to address insecurity before considering regional governance. Public analyst Hamma Hayatu noted that while President Tinubu did not promise restructuring during his campaign, the bill reflects the spirit of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
With notable figures and the public weighing in on the potential implications for Nigeria’s governance and regional development, the debate on the bill continues.
The call for a vote reflects the importance of political participation and democratic decision-making processes in shaping the country’s future governance model, showing the citizen’s desire for greater involvement in political decisions.
