Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has called on the Federal Government to expedite action towards returning the country to true federalism.
He noted that Nigerians must start appreciating the fact that the issue of restructuring and true federalism, remained national issues, insisting that restructuring would pave the way for accelerated development in the country.
Falana declared this at a lecture he delivered entitled, “The Nigerian Federalism Imbroglio: A Pragmatic Approach”, as part of activities marking the third anniversary of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu held at the International Culture and Events Centre, The DOME, Akure, the Ondo state capital.
He equally urged state governors’ forum to explore all avenues towards achieving devolution of more powers to states.
Falana at the event showered encomiums on the governor of Ondo state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, over his outstanding performance in the last three years in office.
The human rights activist who was delivering the third anniversary lecture and Book Presentation of Governor Akeredolu in office, specifically urged the people of the state to re-elect Akeredolu for another term to enable him continue his good work in the state.
At the third anniversary lecture, a book, “The Giant Strides” was also launched.
The legal luminary, who expressed surprise over the excellent developmental strides of the Governor in office, also lauded him for having the interest of his people at heart.
He commended governor Akeredolu for the all-round development across the state, apart from payment of accumulated salary arrears and pension among other developmental strides noticed across the state, saying governor Akeredolu has done well and deserves a second term in office.
Falana also advised Akeredolu to ensure the revitalisation of agriculture and fight corruption to block leakages in the state.
“As a senior lawyer of high repute, let the sun shine in Ondo State again. But be sure, I won’t hesitate to join issues with you if you fail to fulfill your electoral promises,” he stressed.
On true federalism, the legal giant advocated the devolution of political powers to the federating units, provided the people would be empowered.
“Our road to federalism may be very rough, but we will get there,” Falana added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion and Governor of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu, congratulated Governor Akeredolu on his third anniversary which he stressed is full of many achievements.
In his remarks, Governor Akeredolu, commended the guest lecturer with a promise to work on his recommendations to move the country to a greater height.
He appreciated the guest lecturer, Falana and Governor Bagudu for gracing the occasion.
The governor also stressed the importance of National Executive Council meeting, which he said, affected the lives of Nigerians as serious decisions were taken there.
Dignitaries at the event included the state deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi; members of the state executive council; Minister of State for Niger Delta, Senator Tayo Alasoadura; Dr Pius Osunyikanmi, Director- General, Technical Aids Corps; and traditional rulers led by the Chairman Council of Obas, Oba Frederick Akinruntan, the Olugbo of Ugboland, among other dignitaries.
The Hope
