Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), has stressed that federalism remains the only system capable of managing Nigeria’s ethnic diversity and fostering national development.
Speaking during an interview on Prime Time on Arise Television, Agbakoba said Nigeria’s current structure does not give regions the needed autonomy to thrive.
“Nothing has changed. I’ve always said it — with our diverse ethnicity, the best thing that will work for us is federalism,” he stated.
According to him, unless Nigeria allows regions or ethnic blocs more independence within the federal system, true unity and progress will remain elusive.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria lamented that the National Assembly’s slow approach to constitutional reform has hindered meaningful restructuring, noting that over 80 amendments passed this year have yet to create tangible impact.
“For 25 years, the National Assembly has been doing constitutional reforms very slowly. This year alone, they’ve passed over 80 amendments, but it hasn’t had the impact we want,” Agbakoba added.
The legal luminary reiterated that restructuring and devolution of powers are vital to ensuring equity, stability, and national cohesion.
