In a bold critique of Nigeria's federalism, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri has called for a fundamental reassessment of the nation’s governance framework. Speaking at the 64th Founders’ Day Lecture of the University of Nigeria in Nsukka, Diri argued that the current system where only the federal government has the authority to create local governments—represents a significant departure from true federalism and is a hindrance to the country’s development.
In his lecture titled “Rethinking Our Future: The Need For True Federalism and Economic Renaissance,” Governor Diri asserted that states must be empowered to establish and legislate local governments, a move he believes is essential for a genuinely federal structure. He emphasized that real unity in Nigeria can only be achieved through equity, justice, and fairness.
Diri's comments come at a time when discontent with the existing governance model is palpable. He noted that the term “true federalism” has become a rallying cry across Nigeria, reflecting the dissatisfaction with a system he characterized as an “aberration” that serves the interests of colonial powers rather than the diverse needs of its citizens. This disconnection has fueled persistent agitation from various ethnic groups and marginalized communities, who feel their voices and interests are consistently overlooked.
The governor lamented that Nigeria has arrived at a critical crossroads, where decisions made today will shape the nation’s future. He urged Nigerians to engage in open dialogues about how to forge a more inclusive union that respects diversity while pursuing common goals. Diri drew parallels with the United States, advocating for a model of governance where states voluntarily unite, rather than being bound by a top-down imposition of authority.
Reflecting on the historical context, Diri invoked the legacy of Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, a pioneer of minority rights activism who championed the cause of the marginalized from his days as a student leader at the University of Nigeria. He argued that despite being the backbone of the nation’s economy, oil-producing communities remain impoverished, a paradox he attributed to the restrictive Land Use Act of 1978. Diri contended that states must regain control over their natural resources to ensure equitable development and contribute meaningfully to the federal structure.
Furthermore, the governor advocated for the establishment of state police, citing recent violent incidents in Rivers State and Bayelsa during elections as evidence that local governance must extend to security management. He highlighted that the current funding model for local governments unfairly disadvantages states with fewer local government areas, like Bayelsa, which is limited to just eight, compared to states with a multitude of local governments that receive disproportionately more resources.
Governor Diri’s vision for Nigeria calls for a transformation of the political culture, where federalism is not merely a promise but a mechanism for empowerment and progress. He stated, “A union where diversity is celebrated, equity ensured, and opportunities accessible to all must be our collective aspiration.”
