Nigerian Senators Debate Return to Regional Government System

At a two-day retreat on the 1999 Constitution amendments, Nigerian senators from the northern and southern regions expressed differing views on the proposal to reintroduce a regional form of government. The retreat, organized by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, took place in Kano.

Senators from southern Nigeria generally supported the idea, believing that it could boost infrastructure, address insecurity, and improve the economy. However, their northern counterparts were largely opposed to the concept.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele reassured the public that regionalism was not part of the current constitutional review.

Senator Abdul Ningi from the Bauchi Central Senatorial District strongly opposed the idea, arguing that the First Republic’s regional system did not benefit his people. Ningi stated, “My part of the country didn’t enjoy the development of that so-called regional government. We aren’t going back there again! It is either the Nigerian Federation or nothing.”

Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, clarified that the development commissions being established for the six geopolitical zones should not be confused with regionalism. He emphasized that these commissions are aimed at social and economic advancement and not a step towards regional governance.

Similarly, former Senate Leader Ali Ndume noted that true federalism was outdated, as many African nations had moved away from it. He advocated for strong institutions to improve governance and reduce instability, stating, “When the government puts these in place, there won’t be clamour for true federalism because there will be justice, equity, and fairness.”

Senator Muntari Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TetFund, shared Ndume's perspective, stressing the need for governance reform rather than a return to regionalism.

In contrast, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari from the Oyo North Senatorial District supported regional governance, citing the success of resource management during the First Republic. Buhari pointed to the groundnut pyramids in the North and cocoa production in the South West as examples of how regions thrived when they controlled their resources.

When asked about the South West’s stance on the constitutional review, Buhari said they had a plan but would reveal it at the appropriate time.

While the debate over regionalism continues, Bamidele emphasized that such a significant change would require widespread political consensus and the buy-in of the Nigerian people. He noted that constitutional amendments, let alone overhauling the entire constitution, are challenging processes that require careful consideration.