The Rebirth Groups, Others Urges Nigeria to Adopt Parliamentary System
…As The group’s recommends a shift from the current presidential system to reduce avoidable expenses
The Rebirth Group (TRG) recently organized a symposium on “Envisioning Nigeria’s Future: Addressing the National Question.” The event, which took place on November 28, 2024, at Trophy Hotel in Kaduna, aimed to foster discussions on Nigeria’s future and the need for restructuring.
The symposium featured prominent speakers, including Dr. Bitrus Pogu, who spoke on behalf of the chairman of the program. Other speakers included Deacon Owolabi Oladejo, convener of The Rebirth Group, and Dr. P.S. Zira, who spoke on restructuring and true federalism.
Lady Jennifer Nakpodia delivered a presentation on economic restructuring for sustainable development. She advocated for a regional structure, where every Nigerian would benefit from the country’s economy. Honourable Yusuf Idris Amoke spoke on unity in diversity, emphasizing the need for Nigerians to work together for collective progress.
Participants at the symposium included representatives from various ethnic communities in Nigeria. Others participated online via Zoom. The event was well-attended, with organizations such as Ohaneze Ndigbo, Afenifere, and Arewa Youths Consultative Forum in attendance.
The symposium addressed the challenges Nigeria has faced since its amalgamation in 1914 and independence in 1960. Participants engaged in frank discussions, emphasizing the need to build a nation where no group or ethnic nationality would dominate others.
Most speakers advocated for restructuring, emphasizing that the current structure is responsible for Nigeria’s challenges. However, some participants argued that the problem lies not with the structure, but with the operators.
The symposium resolved that Nigeria should be restructured into regions, with each region having more powers over its affairs. The central government would concern itself only with issues that the federating units cannot handle.
The symposium recommended a parliamentary system of government, citing the avoidable expenses incurred under the current presidential system. Participants also advocated for a Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission to heal the wounds in the country.
TRG team with the Director, Arewa House, Kaduna, Dr. Usman Shuaibu (middle in white). On his right is Deacon Owolabi Oladejo, Convener of The Rebirth Group. Others include Lady Jennifer Nakpodia, Colonel C.B.D. Waziri (rtd), Lady Abiodun Oguntayo, Mr. Olaolu Abogunloko, Dr. Peter Waziri, Comrade Jare Ajayi, Mr. Labo Danjuma, Honourable Henry Mbaya among others.
