Young presidential aspirant backs call for restructuring

A Nigerian presidential hopeful, Chris Emejuru has backed the debate on restructuring in Nigeria.

The American-based young man says Nigeria’s potentials would be fully harnessed if each region of the country “enjoys the fruits of its labour.”

In a statement at the weekend, Emejuru who recently declared his intention to contest for President in 2019 described the call for Nigeria’s breakup as ‘unrealizable’.

"Nigeria is one; from the beauty of the North, to the magnificence of the South, to the wonders of the West, united we will remain, as an example for many, for Africa, for the world,” Emejuru said.

“It is urgent for the reason of economic prosperity for all Nigerians that a restructuring must occur. To restructure, is for each region of the federation to enjoy the fruits of its labour, overseen by an authority to manage each system of that labour. Simply, every region should be able to manage its own output in cooperation with the federal government."

“Since the beginning of self-rule in 1960, major events have shaped our landscape politically, economically, and socially. From the assassination of Prime Minister Tafawa Bawela, to the coup attempt by General Ironsi, this led to a federal system with no viability, as 'regionalism' was relegated to something unimportant at the time.

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"During these major transitions, sentiments were brewing, especially concerning divisions between the North and South. These implications would reach a boiling point. This boiling point eventually led to the civil war. To avoid this, concessions were made, but the influence of one charismatic leader, Ojukwu was undeterred.

"Propoganda was relentless giving the South courage to secede from the Union, but ultimately, the plot failed, and this so called leader of the Biafra War retreated with all his luxuries. Economically and socially, the country was in disarray and for the next 29 years, different transitions of power and brief stints of democratic rule would take form but with menial results. It wasn’t until the fourth Republic arose into fruition in 1999, that a democratic foundation lay its roots. However flimsy these roots are, it was the beginning," Emejuru narrated.

He urged the President Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government to reconcile loosed ends in the country adding that the growing concerns and disparities between different regions ‘gave reasoning to a divisive past that must not repeat itself.’