As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary, Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central, has called on Nigerians to prioritize unity over divisive issues. In his Independence Day message issued from Abuja, Bamidele expressed deep concern regarding the persistent ethnic distrust in the country.
He urged all Nigerians, particularly the elite, to focus their efforts on what unites the nation rather than what separates it. “After 64 years of political independence and 110 years of corporate existence, it now rests upon us all to focus our energy and intellect on what majorly unites us as a federation rather than what will further divide us along our ethno-political and religious fault lines,” Bamidele stated.
He emphasized the need for deliberate action to tackle the challenges that create divisions and contribute to political tensions. “At this trying time, we must decisively address what easily divides us to build a resilient federation that works for all. It is essential for leaders—political, socio-cultural, religious, traditional, community, or professional—to come together and reach a consensus on how to confront the significant challenges undermining our collective prosperity, national harmony, and political stability,” he urged.
On the topic of the ongoing constitutional review, Bamidele reassured Nigerians that their concerns regarding the current political system would be adequately addressed. He noted that Parliament has received numerous proposals aimed at reforming Nigeria’s governance structure. Key issues under review include the establishment of state police, diaspora voting, and financial independence for local governments.
Bamidele highlighted the collaborative nature of the constitutional review process, which requires input from both federal and state legislatures, as well as diverse stakeholders. “There is no better time to review our federal governance structure than now, with a view to creating a federation that is more efficient, functional, and responsive,” he added.
He revealed that Parliament has already received 37 fresh memoranda from various interests nationwide and is revisiting 16 constitutional amendment bills inherited from the Ninth National Assembly. Before public hearings on the constitutional review commence in January 2025, Bamidele encouraged more memoranda from all stakeholders.
The proposed reforms include establishing state police, adopting diaspora voting, ensuring financial autonomy for local government councils, enhancing the independence of the judiciary, providing special seats for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly, and creating the National Council of Traditional Rulers. Bamidele affirmed that all interests would be considered in the review process, stating, “As we proceed with the review, we promise not to leave any interest behind in the task of forging a new path for our beloved fatherland. And Nigeria shall be better for it.”
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