Peace Social Advancement Centre organizes colloquium to discuss way forward for better Nigeria

Abdul-Baaqi Adenekan (Intern)

The Peace and Social Advancement Centre (PESAC) has organized a colloquium to discuss matters on social development and ensuring better governance, with the theme,’ Contextualizing Nigeria’s Democracy: The Interplay Between Federalism and Unitary System’

Penpushing reports that the colloquium was held on Thursday at Centenary Hall, Ake, Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital which engaged number of stakeholders, pointing out the problem in Nigeria, and equally suggested ideas on what needs to be done for the country as a nation to move forward.

The member of Federal House of Representatives Hon Afolabi Afuape in his keynote address was of the opinion that as part of solution, each state should be allowed to move at their own pace, and in addition they(states) should have their own community police force.

Penpushing further reports that Afuape represented by his senior legislative aide Adeola Sanni noted that power has been concentrated at the centre, stressing that if the country is practicing federalism, the federation units must be identified

“Each state should be allowed to develop at their own pace, and have their own security.  Power is concentrated at the center not everywhere, if we are practicing federalism, the federation units must be identified’, he stated.

‘The present system does not allow state police. Federalism in Nigeria today is seen as very complex, I see federalism embedded with the unitary system. If we desire through federalism or the unitary system then we need to revisit the 1999 Constitution. I would also like to make it known that I am presently sponsoring a bill that will create community police within the state”, he said.

Penpushing also reports that the Chairman at the programme, Gbenga Gbesan in his remarks called for constitutional reform, as well as restructuring of the current system and attitudinal change among politicians

The Chairman at the well-attended events in to buttress his views explained that this will be relevant in order to have functional system that promotes peace, justice and development to the advantage of Nigeria

Penpushing reports that the Executive Director of the Peace and Social Advancement Centre (PESAC), Femi Adeleye in his opening remarks explained that the gathering was to explore the complexities of Nigeria’s democratic system and the intricate relationships between federalism and unitary governance.

The Executive Director emphasized that the objectives of this colloquium are: to examine the historical, political, and social contexts shaping Nigeria’s federalism and unitary governance, to analyze the tensions and synergies between federalism and unitary system in Nigeria’s democratic experience.

Penpushing further reports that he added that others are to identify challenges and opportunities for reforming Nigeria’s democratic governance, to foster inclusive dialogue among scholars, policymakers, civil society, and stakeholders, to inform policy recommendations for strengthening federalism and democratic governance.

The Director stated that by participating in the colloquium, stakeholder would enhance understanding of Nigeria’s federalism and unitary governance dynamics, critical insights into the implications of federalism and unitary system on democratic governance and identification of key areas for reform and policy interventions.

Penpushing also reports that he said these include establishment of a network of scholars, policymakers, and stakeholders committed to advancing Nigeria’s democracy, a comprehensive report and policy brief outlining recommendations for strengthening federalism and democratic governance.

The Peace and Social Advancement Centre (PESAC) boss on the duration of the gathering the participants will delve into the nuances of Nigeria’s democratic system, examining the tensions and synergies between federalism and unitary governance.

Penpushing reports that he pointed out that the speakers and panelists will share their expertise on topics such as the historical context of Nigeria’s federalism, implications of unitary system on democratic governance, role of institutional frameworks in promoting federalism and challenges and opportunities for reforms

‘At PESAC, we believe that informed policy decisions and inclusive dialogue are essential for advancing Nigeria’s democracy. This colloquium aims to contribute meaningfully to this endeavor. Adeleye emphasised.

FOOTNOTE: You want to share story with us? You want to advertise with us? You need publicity for product, or service, or   event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348073463653 or email [email protected]