With the debate for system of government that suitable for solving Nigeria’s myriad of problems rages on, the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, has lend his voice for solution.
Speaking on the debate, Gabam opposed calls to revert Nigeria to a parliamentary system of government. He insisted that the shift back to parliamentary system will not address the nation’s socio-political challenges.
The SDP National Chairman made his submission while appearing on Channels TV’s Politics Today, on Thursday.
Gabam argued that the root of Nigeria’s issues lies in widespread corruption. And not the presidential system of government borrowed from the United States.
He noted that the presidential system could be effective if adjusted to better fit Nigeria’s unique context and challenges.
The SDP National Chairman attributed the presidential system’s ineffectiveness in Nigeria to pervasive corruption and a lack of government accountability. He, therefore, questioned why the presidential system succeeds in the U.S. but struggling in Nigeria.
According to him, the presidential system works in America despite its own challenges with corruption. Because they have controls in place. “If we find it expensive here, why not introduce mechanisms to prevent officials from looting public funds unchecked?” he remarked.
Gabam also expressed doubt in the ability of the judiciary and National Assembly to initiate these adjustments. He noted that there are compromises within these institutions.
He said, “The National Assembly should perform oversight functions. But they are often compromised by their relationship with the executive. How can they drive change when they allow these issues to persist?” the SDP leader said.
Gabam, however, advocated for a thorough reorientation of critical sectors as a solution to the problem.
He highlighted the importance of engaging young voters, who constitute 70% of the electorate, to elect knowledgeable leaders capable of upholding the Constitution and Senate rules.
“We can’t keep electing half-baked candidates and expect meaningful change,” he said.
The SDP National Chairman also called for the empowerment of agencies like the Civil Defense, Federal Road Safety Commission, and Nigerian Customs Service to strengthen national security.
source: Leadership
Follow us for more news on our WhatsApp News Channels @
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaC505jB4hdZ5Yx9g82U