Gov Oyetola Differs On Nigeria’s Breakup

By Ayodele Oni

Like his Ekiti State counterpart, Dr Kayode Fayemi, Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola has said that Nigeria would benefit more from economic restructuring as against the persistent call for a total breakup of the nation.

Speaking during an interview forum, in Abuja, organized by the New Agency of Nigeria, (NAN), Governor Oyetola condemned those calling for the breakup of the country, describing them as “unserious’’ and called for more economic and political powers for state governments.

There have been agitations and demonstrations in support of the break up of Nigeria in the South west and South East areas of the country, in particular, to address what the Agitators describe as the glaring lopsidedness, in appointments, distribution of amenities, and to ensure equity, justice and fair play.

But according to Governor Oyetola, every State in the Federation has both human and natural endowments that can be used by each to sustain itself if the country is restructured well.

The Governor said that Nigerians had come a long way and should not allow current challenges to tear them apart.

“People give different interpretations to the word ‘restructuring’. What I believe  is that for us to live together as a people, every unit of the enclave should have rights and responsibilities clearly defined.

“To me, restructuring does not mean that people should separate. Whoever is thinking along that line is not serious.

“We have come a long way and it is togetherness that can make us get to where we are supposed to be within the space in the world.

“We have all the resources to be great and so what should happen is let’s not emphasise what divides us, rather let’s look at what binds us together.

“Let us look at issues that could create unnecessary problems and get them solved.

“I believe in devolution of power to the States, let the States have more power to do most of the things they have been doing.

“Give the States more support and I believe we should look at the issue of revenue allocation. We should allow the states to have more funds to develop some of the things they have.

“Yes, you can look at all these areas but not in terms of separation. I’m not for separation.”