Obasa Canvasses True Federalism; Asks FG To Allow States Manage Resources

By Akinwale Kasali

Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has reiterated the need for the nation to think in the direction of true federalism, saying it was necessary and would be the solution to the county’s many challenges.

Obasa re-emphasized this at the 13th annual Hijrah Lecture 1443 A.H (2021) organised by the House with the topic: The Role Of The Youths In The Emerging Socio-Economic And Political Realities.

Obasa said it is obvious that citizens and leaders in the country intensify efforts to salvage the economy, especially as it relates to the increasing poverty rate. He also harped on the need to make the country secure and peaceful as well as handle the dwindling fortunes of the Nigerian currency against the dollar.

He stressed that the  theme for the event was apt and germane at this critical time in the country’s journey to sustaining democratic rule, urging the Federal Government to see the current situation as an opportunity to address the issue of the collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) in favour of the States.

He said if Nigeria was to make progress, the country should follow the steps of the United States of America and China which relies on the provinces.

“The topic of this event is very important. What is the situation of our country? What is the situation with the youth? How do we live our lives? What is the health and educational situation of the country?

“We talk about youth unemployment, but what is the state of education and qualifications?

“The topic is important, especially with the argument that the economy has become seriously challenged.

“The standard of living and the rate of poverty are biting. Months ago, the dollar rate was still welcoming at a little above N300 but today, it is more than N500.

“This current situation of the country is an opportunity for the federal government to address the issue of VAT.

“China today relies on the provinces of the country. USA practises true federalism. If we are practising federalism, we should be consistent. We should operate in a way that Osun State would explore its resources and Zamfara would do same,” Obasa said while expressing hope in the future of the nation as it marks it 61st Independence Day Celebration.