BY PHILIP JEREMIAH EKE, YENAGOA

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has emphasized the necessity for Nigeria to return to true federalism in order to fulfill its economic potential, stating that the nation is currently at a crossroads.

During the 64th University of Nigeria Founders’ Day lecture at the Nsukka Campus, Diri addressed the topic, “Rethinking our Future: the Need for True Federalism and Economic Renaissance.”

Criticizing the existing federal structure, Diri argued, “It is preposterous that while talking about the country moving to a true federalism, the Federal Government created local government for states”, while contending that states should have the constitutional authority to create and legislate local governments as part of a genuine federal system.

Diri noted, “We are all aware of the ongoing conversation around the issue of autonomy of local governments. My concern over this sensitive subject is beyond the question of autonomy and more about the rationale for their creation.”

He highlighted the inequities in funding, pointing out that states like Bayelsa, which has only eight local governments, are disadvantaged compared to others with more local governance units. “The current system… puts some states, especially Bayelsa, at a disadvantage,” he stated.

He criticized the federal government’s role in local governance, arguing, “Since the Constitution exclusively recognises states and the federal government as federating units, the Federal Government’s creation of local governments constitutes an aberration.” According to Diri, local governance should be the responsibility of the states, aligning with constitutionalprovisions.

In his remarks, he advocated for “enforcing states’ autonomy to create local government areas tailored to their unique needs and financial capacity.” He asserted that the quest for true federalism is vital for addressing issues of marginalization, resource control, and good governance

“In the context of Nigeria, the term ‘true federalism’ has become a rallying cry for those seeking autonomy,” he said, urging for a shift from what he described as “unitary federalism.”

Diri stressed the urgency for dialogue, stating, “We must engage in such frank conversations about how to create a more perfect union.” He emphasized the need for a political culture that celebrates diversity and ensures equity, saying, “A union where diversity is celebrated, equity is ensured and opportunities are accessible to all.”

Reflecting on the historical context, he noted that the current federal system was designed to benefit colonial interests, contrasting it with federations like those in the United States and Australia that were formed through mutual consent among states. He proposed decentralizing electoral management and dispute resolution to enhance federalism in Nigeria.

Diri concluded, “By doing so, we will unlock our comparative potential, unleashing innovation and entrepreneurship. The choice is clear: continue with a centralized system as practised today or embrace true federalism.”

Earlier, the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Prof. Polycarp Chigbu, recognized the contributions of the institution’s founders, led by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe.

Professor Sonny Iroche, delivering a keynote lecture, echoed the need for university autonomy to fully realize their potential.