Public Hearing: Separationists should embrace dialogue -Gov Yahaya
Chima Azubuike, Gombe
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, on Monday, urged separationists in the country to give the legislators opportunity of correcting perceived errors the 1999 constitution, adding that dialogue is the most appropriate tool.
Yahaya made this disclosure, while declaring the North East zone constitution review public hearing held in the state.
According to him, process of constitution amendment is amongst the finest attributes of a functional democracy, stressing that constitution is a living document that has to be in tune with the realities of the people and the times.
“Today’s, Town Hall meeting is convened by the National Assembly as part of its statutory responsibilities. The meeting will give Nigerians the opportunity to make clear their positions on how they want their country to be governed as well as the various political, social and economic arrangements underpinning our democracy.
“As the legitimate representative of our people, the national assembly (in collaboration with their counterparts at the state assemblies) is the only institution charged with amending the constitution.
“I’m therefore calling on all disgruntled elements to desist from utterances and actions that are capable of undermining our constitutional order. Instead, all aggrieved parties should embrace dialogue and pursue their legitimate aspirations through their elected representatives at both national and state levels.”
Meanwhile, Nnamdi Ekwuonye, who made presentation on behalf of Megadof chamber, called for devolution of power.
Ekwuonye revealed that they are official lawyers for the movement of Biafra in Nigeria, adding that Nigeria would be better when powers are devoted among regions.
He said, “You know there are two factions in IPOB; this IPOB we are asking for devolution of power and in the event that it fails which I expect they will not take this seriously.
“That is when armed conflict comes in but if they want Nigeria to be secured, or the security of Nigerians they have to work hard and urgently on the devolution of power because both economically and socially, security wise Nigeria is better of.”
