Chief Olusegun Osoba, former Governor of Ogun State, and Chief Edwin Clark, Leader of the South-South and Pan-Niger Delta Forum, have thrown their weight behind proposed bills advocating for the adoption of a homegrown parliamentary system of government in Nigeria.
In separate meetings with lawmakers led by Hon. Kingsley Chinda, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, both elder statesmen expressed unwavering support for the initiative.
Chief Osoba, after a closed-door session with the parliamentarians at his Abuja residence, emphasized the economic benefits of a parliamentary system, highlighting its potential for devolving power and reducing the burden on the central government. He stressed the importance of localized governance, particularly in areas like security, where local knowledge is crucial for effective enforcement.
Additionally, Chief Osoba commended the younger generation of leaders for their commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s governance structure, expressing optimism for the country’s future under their leadership.
Chief Edwin Clark echoed Chief Osoba’s sentiments, emphasizing the urgent need for restructuring in Nigeria. He cited the 1963 Constitution, crafted by Nigerians after the country’s transition to a republic, as a testament to the importance of homegrown governance frameworks. He also presented a book titled ‘Brutally Frank,’ dedicated to the restructuring of Nigeria, to Hon. Kingsley Chinda.
Clark highlighted the dominance of state governors in Nigeria’s political landscape, underscoring the necessity of a revamped constitutional framework to address power imbalances and ensure accountability.
Hon. Kingsley Chinda, addressing the lawmakers’ collective resolve, reiterated the need for a tailored governance structure that accommodates Nigeria’s diverse population and unique backgrounds. He criticized the current presidential system for its inefficiencies and lack of accountability, advocating for a more hands-on approach to governance.
The lawmakers stressed the importance of legislative action in effecting meaningful change, recognizing the role of structural reforms in addressing Nigeria’s socio-political challenges. They emphasized the need for a paradigm shift away from military-era legacies towards a system that better reflects the aspirations of the Nigerian people.
