True federalism, state policing key to national progress – Gov Aiyedatiwa

By Precious Oluwole

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has called for critical amendments to the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria to reflect the current realities of the federating units, advocating for true federalism, fiscal autonomy, and state policing.

Speaking at the South-West Centre B Public Hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review held at The Dome, Akure, on Friday, the governor described the process as a milestone event with the potential to strengthen national unity, governance, and development.

Welcoming delegates from Ekiti and Osun States as well as members of the Constitution Review Committee, Aiyedatiwa emphasized the need for regular constitutional reforms that align with the people’s aspirations.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly for initiating the review process. According to him, Ondo State had submitted its official memorandum addressing the 13 thematic areas and over 80 proposed bills under consideration, calling for reforms that will improve peaceful coexistence and prosperity.

He specifically championed the decentralization of Nigeria’s policing structure, noting that the rising security threats across the country have overwhelmed the current centralized system. The governor reiterated Ondo State’s call for the establishment of State Police, citing the success of the Amotekun Corps as proof of the efficacy of community-based security.

He also pressed for the amendment of Section 44(3) of the Constitution to allow states to control mineral resources, describing the current federal monopoly as a bottleneck that hampers local development and fuels illegal mining.

Governor Aiyedatiwa further advocated for the recognition of the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) created in Ondo State as full-fledged Local Government Areas in the Constitution, similar to the proposal for Lagos State.

While supporting the creation of new states, he firmly opposed any attempt to excise parts of Ondo territory. The governor concluded by urging participants to engage constructively, uphold democratic ideals, and contribute meaningfully to shaping a Constitution that truly reflects the values and dreams of all Nigerians.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Abiodun Oyebanji, represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata, called for equal political representation for women and persons with disabilities, formal recognition of traditional rulers, and restrictions on the indiscriminate movement of herders and livestock across the country.

In his remarks, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by his Deputy, Mr. Kola Adewusi, called for the reduction of the high cost of governance and political campaigns, warning that unregulated campaign expenses could lead to desperation and electoral malpractice.

Representing traditional rulers, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman, Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, advocated for the constitutional recognition of monarchs and their inclusion in policymaking processes, noting that they remain the closest authorities to the grassroots.

Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Nigerian League of Women Voters, Mrs. Titilayo Owolabi, submitted a petition with 33,000 signatures, demanding greater inclusion of women in governance and political participation.

Earlier, Mr James Faleke stated that the purpose of the public hearing was to collate the views of citizens across the Southwest toward drafting a constitution that meets the people’s yearnings for development, equity, and justice.

Other stakeholders, including the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), also submitted memoranda on areas of interest for amendment in the 1999 Constitution.