By Ayodele Oni
Ondo State Governor, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, is insisting that nothing but National dialogue could resolve the mirage of challenges facing the country at present.
He has, therefore, charged the Senate Committee on the review of 1999 Constitution to address the minds and concerns of Nigerians as it begins public hearing.
Governor Akeredolu, while receiving members of the Constitution Review Committee in Akure, said the people are desirous of National dialogue to chart a new course for the nation, adding that it is crucial for the continued existence of the country.
The Committee was led by the Deputy Senate majority leader and Senator representing Ondo North Senatorial district, Prof. Ajayi Borrofice.
Other Members of the Committee, include Senator Biodun Olujimi; Senator Nicholas Tofowomo; Senator Olubunmi Adetumbi and Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele.
The Senators are in Ondo State to hold a Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended).
The Governor noted that people are losing confidence because a number of issues have been allowed to fester for too long.
While reiterating his unwavering commitment to the unity of the nation, Governor Akeredolu noted that the issues of insecurity and true federalism have affected many things in the county, including the trust of the people.
“I keep making a case anytime I have the opportunity. My circumstance cannot make me believe in secession. My wife is from the South -east. My Sons married from other regions outside South-west.
“But strong points have been made. Everybody wants to see fairness, federalism. Those are the areas. Is this how to run a Federal Government? Is it an inclusive one? How do we have fair representation? People are worried.
“This Constitution Review, your efforts, I pray it should be accepted. Our people believe that there must be dialogue.
“People are saying we want national dialogue. How we convoke it, I don’t know. I believe those are issues we must look at.
According to him, the people are already on the edge, adding that the issues of farmers/herders clash can not be wished away in the course of the public hearing.
“It is not easy to wish herders/farmers clash away. Our people are on edge. What are we saying about Police?
“Are we stressing multi-level policing? Are we talking about State Police? I believe opportunities are there for us in this country.
Earlier, Senator Borrofice described the Constitution review as a crucial exercise, especially at a time the nation is confronted with many issues.
He identified the issues of ethnic nationalism and restructuring, which are at the front burner, as part of the reasons the exercise becomes important this time.
He said the Committee is committed and determined to carry out the review of the constitution.
