The Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, today said Nigeria would continue to grapple with its current challenges unless it was restructured.
Atiku stated this at the 64th Annual Bible Study Conference of the National Council of Anglican Youth Fellowship (AYF) of Nigeria held at the Ekiti Diocesan Camp Ground, Iyin-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
Represented by his running mate and Governor of Delta State Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Atiku who was Special Guest at the occasion, said Nigeria was in dire need of knowledgeable, capable, and experienced leaders who would break the cycle of failed leadership and take the country to the level of growth and prosperity.
He said that devolution of powers and resources to the sub-national governments, and the guaranteeing of a constitution that allowed equity, justice for all and inclusiveness in governance such that none was left out or oppressed, was what was needed for a proper federal structure.
According to him, Nigeria should continue as a true Federation but not in its present form.
He said “I advocate a proper federal structure that recognises the federating units and the federal government as mutually coordinate and not subordinate one to the other, yet cooperative among themselves, distinct from the current structure where states exist as mere appendages of the centre.
“I am particularly thrilled by the theme of this conference – ‘Be Strong and Courageous’ because the times we live in call for men and women of courage who will stand up to be counted in the battle to rescue and rebuild Nigeria.
“There is no gainsaying the fact that Nigeria’s unity is under serious threat today. The mutual suspicion, distrust, and sometimes hostility among the various ethnic groups have reached levels never experienced before, fueling separatist agitations across the country. “
Atiku blamed the present insecurity in the country on the leadership of the security agents which according to him are from section of the nation.
The presidential hopeful called for inclusiveness, promising that his administration shall treat all Nigerians as equal stakeholders.
The former vice-president assured that if voted as President in 2023, he would prioritize education in the country as no nation could develop beyond the knowledge-base of its citizens.
Welcoming guests earlier, National President of Anglican Youth Fellowship (AYF) Nigeria, Mr Alex Akpata, said Nigerians were faced with serious security and economic challenges, but urged the youths to be strong and courageous as the nation would soon overcome its challenges.
He urged the young persons to join politics and stand firm in voting for candidates who would protect the interest of the people.