In a bold proposal for restructuring Nigeria’s governance structure, activist Dr. Akin Fapohunda has called for the abolition of the current 36-state system and a return to regional governance.
He also suggests scrapping the presidential system in favor of a parliamentary system, introducing a unicameral legislature, and providing for self-determination for any section of the country that desires it.
Dr. Fapohunda emphasized the need for a new governance framework, stating that the current structure is failing and could lead to the country’s complete breakdown if not reformed.
He elaborated on these ideas in a trending document he authored, aiming to stimulate a serious national conversation on resolving Nigeria’s critical challenges.
He described his proposal as a memorandum to all Nigerians, which he hopes could evolve into a parliamentary bill or even trigger a national conference of leaders from various sections of the country.
He argued that the 1999 Constitution has failed to address the numerous problems plaguing Nigeria.
“This Act may be cited as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024,” Fapohunda stated, explaining that the document advocates for a regional government structure led by a prime minister and cabinet.
This structure would allow individual ethnic groups to organize themselves into provinces, divisions, and districts while maintaining control over their affairs.
Fapohunda urged, “All Nigerians must look into this proposal this year.
It should be ahead of the 2027 election frenzy.
I am not saying that all the things I proposed must be implemented immediately.
What I am saying is that we should start from somewhere by examining and adopting those elements that could work.”
In his proposed model, the President of Nigeria would be nominated by the Prime Minister through the National Assembly and elected if the nomination is approved by a two-thirds majority vote.
The President’s term would be six years, with a maximum of two terms.
Regional territories would control and retain all resources and revenues within their jurisdiction, paying federal and regional taxes as required by law.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the entire property in and control of all minerals, mineral oils, and natural gas in, under, or upon any land in Nigeria or in, under, or upon the territorial waters of Nigeria shall vest in the government of the regional territory and the constituent units,” Fapohunda stated in the document.
However, the House of Representatives has disowned the bill. House spokesman Akin Rotimi, in an interview, clarified, “The Committees on Rules and Business and Constitution Review have confirmed that there is no such bill before them.”
Similarly, the Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Francis Waive, confirmed, “There are two routes to making presentations for constitutional amendments.
One is by members proposing an amendment bill during the plenary.
The second is by memoranda from individuals and groups to the Constitution Review Committee.
On this specific memo (draft bill) under reference, I doubt if it has come before the Rules and Business Committee for listing.
I speak as chairman of the committee.”
