North Central APC Forum Advocates for Regional Government; Give Reasons
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has called for Nigeria to adopt a regional system of government, arguing that this approach would allow each region to fully utilize its natural and human resources.
Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, Chairman of the Forum, emphasized the need for this system during a statement in Jos. He stressed that such a shift is crucial to addressing the pervasive marginalization, particularly affecting the North Central region.
“The North Central region has significantly contributed to the nation through agriculture, education, natural resources, and political leadership, yet it continues to face marginalization,” Zazzaga stated. “Despite being the food basket of the nation, with agricultural produce from Benue, Plateau, Niger, Kogi, and others, the region’s agricultural potential is not fully harnessed to ensure food security. Additionally, the region’s natural resources, such as tin, remain underutilized for economic prosperity.”
Since the democratic era began in 1999, the North Central region has played a crucial role in fostering democracy and producing national leaders. However, Zazzaga pointed out that the region has often been overlooked in political appointments, citing the recent allocation of the contentious APC National Chairmanship to the North West as an example.
“In light of the ongoing marginalization despite our contributions and resources, the North Central APC Forum advocates for a regional system of government. This political framework would distribute power among constituent units, such as regions or states, allowing each to develop independently and mitigate marginalization,” he explained.
Zazzaga also suggested that while the federal government would retain control over national security, foreign affairs, and regulation of interstate commerce, regional governments would have the authority to manage their internal affairs.
