The people of Kogi central Senatorial District have called for constitutional provisions for the rotation of governorship seat among the three zones at the state level and financial autonomy for local government councils.
The call, according to a statement signed by Michael Jegede, Special Assistant on Media to the Senator representing central senatorial district of Kogi State, Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman, was made at a forum organized by the Senator, as part of the ongoing efforts of the National Assembly to further review and amend the 1999.
Stressing the need for governorship rotation, various speakers at the meeting moderated by Dr. Tom Adaba, pioneer Director-General (DG) of National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), argued that it will give a sense of belonging to the three districts in the state.
With various interest groups in attendance, the people of Kogi Central further noted that it is unfair and unjust for a particular district to continue to rule because of their population, while others continue to play second fiddle in the running of affairs of the state.
Speaking on the issue of financial autonomy for local governments, Abatemi-Usman, who is the vice chairman of Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, disclosed that he already has a bill on the matter, which is before the Senate Constitution Review Committee, having scaled through first and second reading.
For the Senator, there is every need for the abolition/review of the existing clause (Section 162, subsections 5, 6, 7 and 8) to provide for fiscal independence for local government councils. He argued that it will pave way for rapid growth and development at the grassroots level.
The people of Kogi Central also voted for the inclusion of provisions in the constitution that will cater for people living with disabilities.
Commenting on the issue of disabled people, Abatemi-Usman also revealed at the forum that there is a bill before the Senate sponsored by him, for an act to ensure full integration of Person With Disabilities into the society and to establish a National Commission vested with the responsibilities for their education, healthcare and protection of their social, economic and civil rights.
