Unity Or Collapse? Senate Leader Warns Nigeria Must Confront Ethnic And Economic Challenges Now

Unity Or Collapse? Senate Leader Warns Nigeria Must Confront Ethnic And Economic Challenges Now

As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence anniversary, Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central, has urged Nigerians to put aside divisive issues and focus on unity.

In his Independence Day message from Abuja on Monday, Bamidele expressed concern over the deep ethnic mistrust in the country, calling on the elite to prioritize national unity over divisive tendencies.

“After 64 years of political independence and 110 years as a nation, we must now focus our energy and intellect on what unites us as a federation, rather than what divides us along ethno-political and religious lines,” Bamidele stated.

He emphasized the need to address the issues causing division and political instability, urging leaders across all sectors—political, socio-cultural, religious, traditional, and professional—to come together and find solutions to the challenges undermining Nigeria’s prosperity and stability.

Regarding the ongoing constitutional review, Bamidele reassured Nigerians that their concerns about the political system were being addressed, with numerous proposals aimed at reforming governance already submitted to Parliament.

The statement from the Directorate of Media and Public Affairs highlighted key issues under review, including the establishment of state police, the introduction of diaspora voting, and financial independence for local governments.

Bamidele noted that the constitutional review is a collaborative process requiring input from federal and state legislatures, as well as diverse stakeholders across the country. He confirmed that the Parliament had received 37 new memoranda from various groups and was revisiting 16 constitutional amendment bills inherited from the Ninth National Assembly.

“There is no better time to review our federal governance structure than now, with the aim of creating a federation that is more efficient, functional, and responsive,” the statement read.

Other issues under review include deepening judicial independence, granting special seats for women in legislative bodies, and establishing a National Council of Traditional Rulers. Bamidele welcomed further contributions from all interests before public hearings commence in January 2025, assuring that no group would be left behind in the effort to chart a new path for Nigeria.