By Milcah Tanimu
Details have emerged from a recent meeting between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and six members of the House of Representatives, led by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere. The meeting, held at Obasanjo’s residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, centered on pressing national issues and governance reforms.
Obasanjo issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, urging it to heed the concerns of Nigerian youths who have been increasingly vocal about their demands for improved governance, economic opportunities, and an end to corruption. He expressed concern that ignoring these demands could lead to severe consequences, given the current frustration, desperation, and high unemployment rates among the youth.
“You are what you are today because you’re a Nigerian; I’m what I am also because I’m a Nigerian. So why should they be Nigerians and be languishing in poverty?” Obasanjo questioned. He stressed that the government must address the root causes of youth dissatisfaction to prevent escalating unrest.
The discussion also covered a proposed bill advocating for a single six-year term for the presidency, with rotational governance between the North and South. Obasanjo emphasized that the effectiveness of such a system depends on the governance mentality rather than the duration of the term. “Whether we have one term of six years or two terms of four years, the critical issue is our mentality. We need to decarbonize our brains,” he stated.
Mr. Ugochinyere supported the move towards a single six-year presidential term and called for a rotational approach to governance between the North and South to ensure inclusivity.
The meeting included additional lawmakers: Hon. Abdulmalik Danga, Hon. Midala Malami, Hon. Matthew Nwogu, Hon. Peter Aniekwe, and Hon. Kama Nkemkama.
