RE: TRUE FEDERALISM

 RE:TRUE FEDERALISM by Tijjani Sarki


In response to Dr. Abbati Bako’s write-up on true federalism, it is essential to appreciate the insights and concerns raised about the challenges of adopting a federal system in Nigeria. While the concept of true federalism has been widely debated especially in terms of its potential benefits and risks it is crucial to approach this issue with a more nuanced perspective to understand how it can function effectively in Nigeria’s complex political environment.


One key issue raised by critics, including Dr. Bako, is the concern that true federalism could lead to fragmentation, inequality, and conflict. While these concerns are valid, historical and contemporary examples of successful federal systems around the world demonstrate that decentralization does not inherently lead to division. 

With careful structuring, federalism can enhance unity while promoting regional autonomy. Take, for example, Germany, Switzerland, India and the United States each of these countries has effectively used federalism to allow diverse regions to flourish, while maintaining a cohesive national identity.


In the case of the United States, states retain significant autonomy, with their own legislatures, laws, and judicial systems. This has enabled local governance to cater to the specific needs of each state, resulting in effective and diverse solutions to challenges like healthcare, education, and policing. Similarly, in Switzerland, the 26 cantons hold substantial powers, including in taxation, education, and health policy.

 The system has enabled Switzerland to remain one of the most decentralized countries globally, yet its national unity and stability have been preserved. Germany, with its Länder (states), is another example of a federal system where regional autonomy is respected, and national cohesion is maintained through shared decision-making structures like the Bundesrat (Federal Council).


Nigeria’s challenge such as ethnic tensions, political instability, and resource imbalances can be addressed by implementing a true federal system. This approach would give states greater control over their own affairs, allowing them to create tailored solutions for their unique needs. For instance, a decentralized system would facilitate better resource management and equitable distribution, addressing issues like the current inequities seen in the sharing of oil revenues. A true federal system would provide a means for marginalized regions to have more power and a greater say in how resources are distributed and managed.


Moreover, true federalism could help mitigate problems related to Nigeria's centralization of power, which has often led to inefficiency, mismanagement, and accountability issues at the all level. For instance, the over-centralization of law enforcement has resulted in the misuse of the Nigerian police force by the central government. This centralization has, in turn, led to states taking matters into their own hands, establishing regional/state security outfits like the Nigeria Amotekun(south-West)Ebube Agu(South-East)

Civilian JTF(Borno state)Neighborhood watch(Lagos state)Community Guards(CPGs)

Community watch corps Katsina state and 

 most recently, the neighborhood watch in Kano State. These actions highlight the need for greater autonomy at the state level to ensure more effective governance and security solutions tailored to local needs.


The recent policies under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT), such as the Establishment of additional regional development commissions, removal of the fuel subsidy and the introduction of tax reforms, have underscored the necessity for significant structural changes within Nigeria’s governance framework. 

These policies, while necessary for economic reform, require a more decentralized system to ensure that states can adapt and implement them according to regional needs. A true federal system would allow regional governments to tailor these policies to their specific contexts, fostering more responsive and accountable governance.


Importantly, true federalism in the Nigerian context is not about dismantling national unity or imposing radical changes rather, it’s about creating a system where power is shared more equitably, and where local governments are empowered to address local issues. It involves a rethinking of how power is distributed, ensuring that regions with distinct needs such as those in the Niger Delta, the North-East, North-west and the South-West are given the autonomy necessary to meet their unique challenges. 


The failure of Nigeria’s current federalism, as seen in the inefficiencies, corruption, and unequal resource distribution that plague the nation, makes it clear that reform is necessary.


Countries like Canada and India also offer useful lessons on the practical implementation of true federalism in diverse and populous nations. In Canada, the provinces hold significant powers, and this autonomy has enabled them to manage their unique demographic, cultural, and economic challenges. Similarly, India’s federal system balances regional autonomy with national unity, allowing states to cater to their cultural and socio-economic realities while participating in a larger federal structure.


In conclusion, true federalism in Nigeria offers significant potential for addressing the country's long-standing governance issues. By looking to global success stories and adapting them to Nigeria’s unique context, it is possible to create a more decentralized system that fosters regional development, reduces corruption, and empowers local governments to meet the needs of their populations. Such a system would also help alleviate feelings of disenfranchisement and promote political stability, as states would feel more engaged in the political process and less alienated from the distant, centralized government. Rather than dismissing true federalism due to concerns about fragmentation, Nigeria should adopt a more thoughtful and inclusive approach to its implementation one that balances the legitimate desire for regional autonomy with the imperative for national unity.


 This can help Nigeria realize its full potential as a prosperous and stable democratic nation.


Tijjani Sarki

Write from Zawaciki,Kano

0904 1405 091

abdullahisarkitijjani@gmail.com

06/02/2025

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