A lawyer and public affairs analyst, Justice Osai Ahiakwo, has hailed the ongoing discussions around the reintroduction of regional government structures by the Nigerian government.
He, however, advised against favoring politicians with enormous financial gains when the system is eventually legalized.
Ahiakwo, who gave this advice in a statement issued in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, stated that for the regional system of government to improve the living standards of the people, the focus must be highly emphasized.
He cautioned, “The policy for restructuring Nigeria must de-emphasize financial gains for politicians. They must not be paid humongous salaries and allowances.”
Ahiakwo disclosed that the basic problem in the current system lies with politicians elected or appointed into positions of trust, who make the cost of governance in Nigeria unbearable.
According to him, the regional system of government is seen as a possible solution to economic growth in the country, one that would promote harmonious coexistence.
He advised that to achieve true federalism, there must be a well-defined legal framework to reduce the overbearing power and control at the center.
He advocated for 50% resource control and the establishment of state policing, with clear operational duties codified.
According to him, “The current system, where the center retains 52.68% and has a central policing system, is no longer tenable.”
The lawyer believes that if the government sincerely pursues the restructuring of Nigeria, the unity and diversity of the nation will potentially project the people’s greatness predetermined by providence.
He added that the conversation initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration on regional government will leave a lasting legacy in Nigerian history.
