Key takeways from Afenifere Chieftain’s Proposal:
- The draft bill proposes restructuring Nigeria into a regional system of governance with eight geo-political regions.
- It advocates for a two-tier government system, with regional governments having executive and legislative powers headed by a “Premier.”
- The current 36 states would be downgraded to “provinces,” and local government areas would become “divisions” focused on socio-economic development.
- The new constitution would grant regions autonomy to create, merge, and reconfigure their sub-political units without interference.
- The proposal suggests a unicameral federal legislature with members elected by the regions, a return to the parliamentary system, and a statutory rotation of leadership among the regions.
The draft bill proposes restructuring Nigeria into a regional system of governance with eight geo-political regions.
It advocates for a two-tier government system, with regional governments having executive and legislative powers headed by a “Premier.”
The current 36 states would be downgraded to “provinces,” and local government areas would become “divisions” focused on socio-economic development.
The new constitution would grant regions autonomy to create, merge, and reconfigure their sub-political units without interference.
The proposal suggests a unicameral federal legislature with members elected by the regions, a return to the parliamentary system, and a statutory rotation of leadership among the regions.
The proposed bill by Akin Fapohunda, a chieftain of the Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, seeks to restructure Nigeria into a regional system of governance. The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to substitute the annexure to Decree 24 of 1999 with New Governance Model for the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” aims to introduce a new governance model for the country.
The proposal envisions dividing Nigeria into eight geo-political regions with approximate interim boundaries. These regions would be granted significant autonomy, including the ability to manage their affairs, create sub-entities, and draft their respective constitutions. The proposed regions include:
- Southern Region: Comprising Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, and Cross River States, with optional inclusions of the Annang, Effik, Ekoi, Ibibio, Oro Ohaji/Egbema in Southern Imo, the Adonia, Efemia, Ijaw, Ogoni, Bini, Ishan, Isoko, Urhobo, and the Ijaw-speaking people in Northern Ondo State.
- South Eastern Region: Consisting of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States.
- Western Region: Made up of Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, and Ekiti States, incorporating the Yoruba-speaking people in Kogi and the Igbomina people in Kwara State, with optional inclusions of the Itsekiri people of Delta State and Akoko-Edo people of Edo State.
- Mid-Western Region: Comprising Edo and Delta States, possibly incorporating the Anioma people.
- Eastern Middle Belt Region: Including Northern Cross River, Southern Kaduna, Southern Borno, Adamawa, Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.
- Western Middle Belt Region: Consisting of Southern Kebbi, parts of Kwara, and Niger States.
- North Eastern Region: Made up of parts of Borno, Gombe, Bauchi, Jigawa, and Yobe States.
- North Western Region: Comprising Kaduna, parts of Kebbi, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara States.
Fapohunda’s proposal advocates for a two-tier government system, comprising the federal government and the regional governments. The regional governments would have executive and legislative functions, with the head of each region bearing the title of “Premier.” The current 36 states would be downgraded to “provinces,” governed by Provincial Councils integrating executive and legislative functions. Similarly, the existing local government areas would become “divisions” focused on socio-economic development.
The proposed new constitution would embody novelties such as granting regions the freedom to create, merge, and reconfigure their sub-political units without interference from any authority. Additionally, it aims to decentralize federal power in favor of not more than 10 regions, aiming to reduce the cost of public and civil service administration to less than 20 to 30 percent of generated revenue.
The coalition also advocates for a unicameral federal legislature, with members elected at the discretion of the regions they represent in Abuja. Furthermore, the proposal suggests a return to the parliamentary system of government with a built-in statutory rotation of leadership among the regions.
While the proposal seeks to address the longstanding calls for restructuring and devolution of power in Nigeria, it is essential to consider the complexities and potential challenges associated with such a significant overhaul of the governance system.
While the proposal seeks to address the longstanding calls for restructuring and devolution of power in Nigeria, it is essential to consider the complexities and potential challenges associated with such a significant overhaul of the governance system. Any constitutional amendment or restructuring process would require broad-based consultations, consensus-building, and a thorough examination of the implications for national unity, resource allocation, and the overall governance framework.
One of the key challenges would be managing the diverse interests and aspirations of the various ethnic and regional groups in the country. The proposed regional boundaries and the allocation of states to specific regions may be contentious, as some groups may feel underrepresented or disadvantaged. Ensuring fair and equitable representation, as well as addressing concerns of marginalization, would be crucial for the successful implementation of the proposed model.
Furthermore, the transition from the current system to the proposed regional governance structure would require a carefully planned and managed process. Issues such as the distribution of powers and responsibilities between the federal and regional governments, the allocation of resources, and the harmonization of existing laws and regulations would need to be addressed comprehensively.
Another aspect to consider is the potential impact on the country’s economic and development trajectories. While the proposed model aims to decentralize power and promote regional autonomy, it would be important to ensure that this does not lead to fragmentation or disruption of national economic policies and programs. Mechanisms for coordination and collaboration among the regions, as well as with the federal government, would be essential to maintain economic stability and promote sustainable development.
Also, the proposed return to the parliamentary system of government and the statutory rotation of leadership among regions may raise concerns about political stability and continuity of governance. It would be crucial to establish robust institutional frameworks and checks and balances to ensure smooth transitions and prevent potential power struggles or political instability.
Despite these challenges, the proposal by Akin Fapohunda and the Coalition of Indigenous Ethnic Nationalities has reignited the debate on restructuring and governance models in Nigeria. It presents an opportunity for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, explore alternative solutions, and work towards a governance system that addresses the diverse needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people.
Ultimately, any decision on restructuring should be guided by the overarching principles of promoting national unity, fostering inclusive development, and strengthening democratic institutions. A comprehensive and participatory process, involving all relevant stakeholders, would be essential to ensure that the proposed changes are well-informed, widely accepted, and capable of delivering the desired outcomes for the betterment of all Nigerians.
