The Middle Belt Council of Elders has called for the support of true federalism, including creation of new states and the implementation of the 2014 national conference (CONFAB) report.
The chairman of the council, Gen. Lekwot Zamani (rtd), made the call on Wednesday in a statement he signed.
He said that given the complex nature of the diverse federation, the call by some people for a return to regionalism is untenable.
“Under such a system before the coup in January 1966, the minorities were seriously marginalised by the major ethnic groups.
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“Since change is the progressive phenomenon that makes life interesting, true federalism with the states under the zones as the federating units vide the 2014 National Conference recommendation is the most cost effective option which we fully support.
“Creating a few more states with boundary adjustments where necessary will bring government to every nook and cranny of the federation to enhance purposeful development, peace and tranquility where the states will take charge of their resources and contribute to the federal government as was the case before,” Zamani said.
He said that will give vent to a healthy competition among the states and infuse a deep sense of belonging and patriotism in everyone.
He also said the vast agricultural land, huge natural resources and the creative talents that abound in the states will then be property harnessed to free the citizens from the shackles of poverty and insecurity by providing employment for the teeming youths.
“This is what the call for re-structuring, which should be set in motion without further delay, is all about.
“May God guide our leaders to mend their ways to assuage the current anguish that has overwhelmed us for Nigeria to take her pride of place in the comity of nations soon,” Zamani added.
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