What It Means for True Federalism
The ongoing review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution has sparked intense debates among Senators, highlighting two major issues: local government autonomy and the establishment of state police. These debates are not new, but they are more critical now than ever, as they touch on the heart of Nigeria’s federal structure and the urgent need for good governance and effective security. In this blog, we critically analyze these issues, examining the significance of the proposals and their potential impact on Nigeria’s journey toward true federalism.
The Fight for Local Government Autonomy: A Necessary Step for Grassroots Development
For decades, the autonomy of local governments in Nigeria has been undermined by state governors, turning what should be an independent tier of government into mere extensions of state authorities. This blatant disregard for the autonomy of local governments has had devastating effects on grassroots development, with funds meant for local councils often misappropriated or withheld by state governments. This not only stifles local development but also fosters corruption and inefficiency at the grassroots level.
The recent decision by Senators to include full autonomy for local governments in the Constitution is a commendable move that aligns with the Supreme Court’s July ruling barring governors from seizing funds allocated to LGAs. This decision signifies a collective acknowledgment that local governments must regain their powers to function effectively. The autonomy would allow LGAs to handle their finances, make independent decisions, and implement policies that directly benefit local communities.
However, while this push for autonomy is a positive step, it’s important to note that it must be accompanied by proper checks and balances. The call for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct local government elections instead of state electoral commissions is a crucial element of ensuring transparency and fairness. Without this, there is a risk that local governments could fall into the same pattern of corruption and inefficiency seen at higher levels of government.
Key Takeaway: Local government autonomy is essential for grassroots development, but it must be supported by mechanisms that ensure accountability, transparency, and genuine representation of the people. This is a step toward building a more democratic and effective federal system.
The State Police Debate: A Double-Edged Sword
The question of establishing state police has long been a contentious issue in Nigeria, with proponents arguing that it is essential for addressing the country’s worsening security challenges, while opponents fear it could be abused for political gain.
Those in favor, like Senator Sani Musa, argue that state police would allow for more localized, efficient handling of security challenges, reflecting the reality that insecurity varies from one state to another. Given Nigeria’s diverse and vast landscape, a one-size-fits-all approach to policing has proven ineffective. By establishing state police, states could tailor their security strategies to meet their unique challenges, making communities safer and more secure.
However, critics like Senator Ali Ndume caution that state police could be manipulated by state governors to target political opponents and settle personal scores. There is a valid concern that state police forces could become tools for oppression rather than protection, especially in a country where political patronage and influence are deeply entrenched.
The crux of the matter lies in whether Nigeria is ready for the decentralization of police powers. The reality is that without strong regulatory frameworks and institutional safeguards, state police could become more of a curse than a blessing.
Key Takeaway: The establishment of state police could significantly improve security if implemented with stringent checks and balances to prevent abuse. The debate reflects the struggle between ensuring effective security and preventing potential misuse of power by political actors.
The Call for Additional States: A Step Towards Equity or a Recipe for Further Division?
Senators from the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones have renewed calls for the creation of additional states, arguing that this is necessary to address the imbalance in the number of states among Nigeria’s regions. The South-East, for example, currently has only five states, compared to six or more in other regions, which some argue is a matter of equity and fairness.
While the argument for balancing representation is valid, the creation of new states should not be seen as a quick fix to the problems of marginalization. There must be a critical examination of the financial viability and administrative efficiency of existing states before adding more. Creating more states could lead to an even greater strain on national resources and increase bureaucracy, thereby complicating governance rather than improving it.
Key Takeaway: Addressing regional imbalances is important, but the solution should focus on ensuring effective governance, resource management, and equitable representation rather than simply creating more administrative units.
The Importance of This Constitutional Review
This current phase of constitutional review is a defining moment for Nigeria. It offers an opportunity to address structural issues that have hindered the country’s development, governance, and security for decades. Local government autonomy, state police, and the creation of additional states are not isolated issues but are interconnected aspects of Nigeria’s federalism that, if properly addressed, can significantly improve governance and the delivery of public services.
The quest for local government autonomy represents a fight against the over-centralization of power and the abuse of authority by state governors. Granting autonomy will empower LGAs to be more accountable to the people they serve, thereby fostering democratic values and development at the grassroots level.
The debate on state police reflects the broader struggle to address Nigeria’s security challenges in a more effective and localized manner. This issue forces us to confront the weaknesses in our current security apparatus and the need for a more decentralized approach.
The push for additional states, while controversial, brings to the fore the need for a more balanced and inclusive federation, ensuring that all regions feel represented and have a voice in the affairs of the nation.
Conclusion: A Step Towards True Federalism or Another Missed Opportunity?
The outcome of this constitutional review will either bring Nigeria closer to realizing the true essence of federalism or perpetuate the existing inefficiencies and inequalities that have plagued the system. Achieving local government autonomy, establishing a viable state police structure, and addressing regional imbalances are critical steps toward creating a more inclusive, efficient, and democratic Nigeria.
However, the success of these reforms depends on the sincerity and commitment of our leaders to implement changes that truly reflect the will and needs of the people. It is not enough to make constitutional amendments on paper; there must be the political will to see these changes through and ensure they are effectively implemented.
The time has come for Nigerians to demand that the Constitution reflects the realities and aspirations of the people. This review process is an opportunity to reshape our nation for the better. If handled correctly, it could be a turning point that sets Nigeria on a path toward true federalism, effective governance, and a brighter future for all its citizens.
Reference
Constitution Review: Senators unite on LG Autonomy, divided on State Police published in Vanguard