The endless push for new states in Nigeria has come under fire! A former Chief Justice is calling out selfish politicians for turning constitutional amendments into a ‘ritual’. Is this state creation frenzy really about helping the people, or just lining the pockets of a select few?
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s causing the stir:
- Ex-CJN Aondoakaa says state creation is driven by selfish interests.
- He argues most new states can’t survive without federal handouts.
- He wants stronger laws to back up INEC’s promises on electronic results.
Is Nigeria’s State Creation Spree a Waste of Money?
Former Attorney General Michael Aondoakaa is not holding back! He believes the constant demands for new states and constitutional changes are all about politics, not good governance. In an interview with ARISE News, he pointed out that many existing states can’t even stand on their own two feet. They’re totally dependent on the federal government. So, why create more?
“It’s like a ritual in Nigeria,” Aondoakaa said. “Every time the legislature meets, constitutional amendment is on the table.” He thinks this constant tinkering is unnecessary and even harmful.
The Constitution: A Work in Progress or a Constant Do-Over?
Aondoakaa argues that the 1999 Constitution, while not perfect, hasn’t failed Nigeria so badly that it needs constant updates. He believes amendments should be reserved for serious issues that have been thoroughly examined and proven to cause injustice. Think of it like this: you don’t rebuild a house every year, you fix what’s broken!
He added, “We create amendments to a level that it becomes counterproductive… Constitution has to be tested. Provisions are tested, interpreted by the Supreme Court. And where the interpretation of the Supreme Court comes with injustices, then we cannot think of amending those provisions.”
Yar’Adua’s Power Transfer: The Untold Story
Aondoakaa also shed light on the events surrounding the transfer of power from the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to Goodluck Jonathan in 2010. Contrary to popular belief, Aondoakaa claims Yar’Adua *did* sign a letter transferring power. So, what happened? He suggests the letter was sabotaged by an official in the presidential liaison office!
“I prepared the transmission of power, and President Yar’Adua signed it,” Aondoakaa explained. “It was given to the then principal private secretary… And when it was handed over to Abba Aji, who was then advisor on liaison office, I don’t know what happened… Yar’Adua transmitted power.” This revelation challenges the long-held narrative surrounding that critical moment in Nigerian history. This is very similar to the 25th amendment in the United states and how the VP takes over power.
Securing INEC’s Promises: Electronic Transmission is Key
Aondoakaa is pushing for stronger constitutional backing for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), especially when it comes to electronic transmission of results. He wants to ensure that INEC’s guidelines are legally binding.
“If they say they will transmit results electronically, they should be bound by it,” he asserted. “And that should be very explicit, not only in the guidelines, but in the electoral act. And of course, also make a provision in the constitutional amendment that INEC guidelines flowing from that are also constitutional. That will put this thing to rest.”
| Issue | Aondoakaa’s Stance |
|---|---|
| State Creation | Driven by selfish interests, not genuine need. |
| Constitutional Amendments | Should be reserved for serious, well-tested issues. |
| INEC Guidelines | Must be legally binding, especially on electronic transmission. |