Don queries validity of federal character principle
A former Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Nuhu Yaqub has queried the validity of the federal character principle as enshrined in the constitution.
Yaqub presently at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto said the federal character principle has created a basis for discrimination and injustices in the country’s governance system.
He spoke on Thursday while delivering his paper titled: “Building the Nigerian nation state through the instrumentalities of justice, peace, unity and strength” at a conference with the theme: “Managing the Nigerian economy and society, time to think the unthinkable.”
The conference was organized by the Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, Chief Anthony Ani Chair of Public Finance, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.
Yaqub in his paper faulted the federal system of government practised in the country, noting that it breeds injustice, creates mutual suspicion and discrimination among other negatives.
The varsity don said the federal system is driving Nigeria towards chaos, adding that “the system is tending towards self-implosion such that it can die without warning.”
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He called for a reassessment of the federal character principle as one of the major steps towards reducing the observed injustices in the governance system in Nigeria.
“The way the principle is now being practiced goes a long way to create a basis for discrimination in the system which defeats its purpose,” the ex-vice chancellor submitted.
Yaqub therefore, advocated for the cultivation from birth values that are appropriate to the needs of nation building, such as values of honesty, fairness, self-control, respect for others, responsibility, service to community and dignity of labour.
