A Professor of Comparative Politics at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Emmanuel Ojo, has called for a non-centralised federal system in Nigeria that would empower state governments politically, legislatively, and financially.
Ojo made the remarks while delivering the 291st inaugural lecture of the university on Friday, titled “The Worship of an Unknown Deity.” He said the current federal arrangement has contributed to political and economic stagnation, and stressed that devolving power to states and local governments is essential for effective governance.
The academic also described the 1999 Constitution as “defective” and imposed by the military, advocating for a new constitution through a referendum, constitutional convention, or democratically elected constituent assembly.
Ojo urged Nigerians to adopt a “federal spirit” to promote justice, equity, and reduce ethnic tensions. He also recommended repealing the Land Use Act to allow resource-bearing communities to benefit directly from mineral wealth rather than the current system that centralises ownership under the federal government.
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