True federalism can sustain Nigeria’s democracy – Makinde

GOVERNOR Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has identified true federalism and restructuring as necessary ingredients that could sustain Nigeria’s democracy in view of challenges facing it.

He stated this at the opening ceremony of Seyi Makinde 2021 National Democracy Summit held at the International Conference Center, University of Ibadan, with the theme “The Future of Democracy In Nigeria”,

Governor Makinde called for devolution of powers at the center to the federating units in order to strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

The governor, who also explained the dilemma of Nigerian governors in the face of security challenges noted that devolution of the over concentrated powers at the center to the federating units would go a long way in strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

The governor, who lamented dwindling economic resources at state levels due to inability of states to control resources said true federalism and restructuring would bring economic development to Nigeria and tackle security problem.

On the scenario which played out at Igangan, in Ibarapa axis of the State, Makinde said, it had become imperative to further entrench state policing in each state to prevent further attacks on innocent citizens.

Observing that the incursion of armed herders, criminals and bandits into some parts of the state has presented a severe security challenge, Makinde stressed that state policing is a sure cure to this national challenge.

The governor maintained the need to review state security architecture in the country and the exploration of natural resources domiciled in each state.

“States need independent power over their security architecture. We all know that without a secure environment, all efforts to attract investors will be in vain”, he said.

Speaking earlier, the Governors of Ondo and Osun State’s, Rotimi Akeredolu and Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, represented on the occasion said the summit would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin assured citizens of Oyo State of the commitment of the 9th Assembly to more quality legislation for the growth of our nascent democracy.

Earlier, the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof Oyewo Oyelowo said the theme of the summit “The Future of Democracy in Nigeria” was informed to fashion way out of the problems facing the country.