Vice-President Kashim Shettima has said that Nigeria needs good governance rather than a change in the system of governance from federalism to parliamentary, as some have suggested.
Shettima said this while speaking at the 30th anniversary of Yusuf Ali & Co (Ghalib Chambers) in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Saturday.
He noted that democracy can only survive by adherence to rule of law and quality of governance, not by a parliamentary system as being canvassed in certain quarters.
He said, “Many nations that collapsed did so because of lack of access to truth and justice; their access to justice was frustrated and denied.”
Commenting on the 2023 electoral process, Shettima assured that President Bola Tinubu had not influenced the electoral process since taking office.
“President Bola Tinubu never influenced the electoral process, and we (presidency) never used instruments of office to hunt or hound perceived opponents standing trial,” he said.
Former Minister of Works, Raji Fashola (SAN), who also spoke at the event, recalled Nigeria’s failed past experience with a parliamentary system.
Questioning the feasibility of returning to such a system, which previously led the country into disaster, Fashola said, “Let’s think deeply about why the parliamentary system failed us and have we overcome those reasons?”
Fashola suggested that instead of changing the system of government, Nigeria should focus on a liberal democracy that ensures better livelihoods for its citizens.
He noted that calls for system change are often driven by economic reasons.
“Those calling for the system change are instigated by economic reasons. If only they are confident the government would provide for their economic need, they won’t chant this clamour for change.
“If there is sincerity of purpose, there will be better life for all even under the present system of government.
“Those calling for change of government are the canvassers of restructuring which can be done with constitutional review/amendment of the areas not suitable for us,” he said.
He stressed that restructuring could be achieved through constitutional amendments rather than an overhaul of the system.
Fashola blamed the calls for a change of system on poor education, especially regarding political history.
“If people are not accustomed to how a system works, they will be frustrated and call for its change. Why must we go back to the system that once catapulted our country into disaster?” he queried.
Fashola advised retaining the current federal arrangement while reducing the excessive cost of governance. He thanked the celebrant, Yusuf Ali, noting that the annual gathering has always positively impacted society.
In his welcome address, the founder of Ghalib Chambers, Prof. Yusuf Ali, expressed gratitude for the firm’s success, attributing it to divine favor and blessings.
