Do we actually need federal character if federalism is rightly practised?
The issue of equitable representation will still come up within each federating unit. The central government must have the power to protect the minorities through a legal system by which they can seek redress if they feel marginalised. So while federalism is desirable, we most importantly need to check the demon of nepotism. Federal or state elections, which should hold first? We are only concerned about credible elections, which the recent electoral act amendment cannot guarantee because many important provisions of the Uwais report have been removed. However, the Act is only a document and the most important aspect is the implementation. If people saddled with the implementation, especially the security officers, play by the rule, Nigeria will be happy for it. If there will be credible elections in 2011, it is Nigerians that will demand it because those in power are selfish. The police have the mentality that they are protecting the government of the day. The IG said at a recent foru
