The ongoing debate on the desirability and constitutionality or otherwise of the “Zoning System” in Nigeria has become an order of the day in the country’s news. There is a great deal of diverse opinions from several Nigerians on whether “PDP Zoning Arrangement” should continue to be respected or not. However, the question one may ask here is, is “Zoning” in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999)? Or is “Zoning” one of the principles of true democracy? Anyway, that should be by the way, because as far as I am concerned, the ongoing debate is another means (added to other thousand means) that the present PDP Government is using in diverting the attention of Millions of suffering Nigerians from the unfulfilled and undelivered promises made to them. Let’s take 7-Points Agenda (which I always referred to as “7-Points Hidden Agenda”) as an example. What is currently happening in the power, education and health sectors among others? What achievement did Nigerians witness so far (From 2007 to date)? Are these systems improving or worsening? Then, what are the ways forward? But, instead of PDP Government and other “Pro-Zoning” agitators addressing and asking questions on these critical issues, they are all focusing their attention and wasting their energy on carrying out debates on “Zoning” and campaigns for 2011 Presidential Office, which has little meaning and importance to majority of the Nigerian populace.
On the other hand, as a Northerner or rather Northern Youth let me discuss “Zoning” and its impact to the Northern Region. It is obvious that some Northern Politicians who are “Pro-Zoning” are now using “Zoning” as a tool in campaigning for 2011 Presidential Office. Some of them have ruled this nation before but it is glaring that they left behind little or no legacy even for the North they are claiming and using. Likewise, when we look at the history of previous leadership Nigeria had from Independence to date (both Military and Civil), we find out that Northern Region produced majority of the leaders the country had. Yet, the Region is still far behind in terms of economic, educational and social development among others compared to its counterpart in the country. Then in this case, what did the Region benefit from this leadership of its own “so called” indigenes?
Therefore, based on the above, I think with the number of non-stop and uninterrupted years Nigeria spent practicing democracy, it is high time for Nigerians to start practicing democracy proper. What our Dear country Nigeria is in dire need is a good leader who will move the country forward, regardless of his/her sex, age, religion, ethnicity or tribe. Hence, with “Zoning” or no “Zoning” Nigerians should start giving priority on the credibility, integrity and capability of any candidate they would vote into political office come 2011 General Election.
Yusha’u Sani Yankuzo
Faculty of Law,
Bayero University, Kano
08033477704, 08055558250
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