Africa
***Says Governors have reduced State Assemblies to mere extensions of the executive.
…Speakers and Assembly members are handpicked by them
FORMER Federal Commissioner for Information and South-South Leader, Chief Edwin Clark has said that the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, the umbrella body of the thirty- six Governors was at a crossroads.
In a statement yesterday in Abuja, the leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF who noted that the survival of NGF, and ours, depends on its willingness to reform and align with the principles of democracy and good governance, just as he called for the immediate suspension of the forum from now in order to avert what he described as the looming crises between the various governments.
In a statement titled, “Our Governors’ Forum: An Open Appeal for Reform”, the Elderstatesman said that the suspension of NGF has become imperative against the backdrop that at the State Level, the governors have reduced State Assemblies to mere extensions of the executive, even as Speakers and Assembly members are handpicked by the Governors, ensuring unwavering loyalty.
According to him, with this development, Independent thought or dissent are met with swift political retribution, and legislative autonomy remains a distant dream, asking if this can be called democracy?
Clark said, “A Call to Action: Reforming the NGF. Fellow Nigerians, the NGF stands at a crossroads. Its survival, and ours, depends on its willingness to reform and align with the principles of democracy and good governance. “Therefore, I strongly advise the suspension of the Governors’ Forum from now in order to avert the looming crises between the various governments.”
The Leader of Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, SMBLF said that at the Federal Level, the NGF’s manipulation of legislative processes is no less concerning, saying that Governors often manoeuvre federal candidates, particularly Senators, ensuring their future political interests are safeguarded.
The statement read, “For decades, I have watched with both hope and trepidation as our nation has sought to strengthen its federal structure and foster development across its vast and diverse regions. Today, I address you as an elder statesman, deeply concerned by the path we tread yet optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead. This letter, a gentle yet firm call to introspection, focuses on the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) and its evolving role in our democracy.
“Let us take a reflective stroll through the years, examining how this body, initially intended as a platform for collaboration, has often strayed into the realm of power without accountability, influence without responsibility. Yet, even now, I believe we can reshape this trajectory. For what is a nation if not the sum of its hope?
“The Origins of the NGF: A Noble Idea Gone Awry
The NGF was born of necessity. Established to foster inter-state cooperation and facilitate dialogue among the Governors of Nigeria’s 36 states, its purpose was to act as a bridge between the tiers of government. In its infancy, the forum sought to harmonise governance practices, exchange ideas, and advocate for state interests within the federal framework.
“A useful comparison can be drawn here to the United States Governors’ Association. Unlike the NGF, which has often drifted into political posturing, the U.S. model remains a collaborative body focused on improving governance, sharing best practices, and serving as a unified voice for State governments. Its achievements, from policy innovation to crisis management, remind us of what the NGF could have been—a platform for progress rather than contention.
“However, as with many noble ventures, the NGF began to morph. By the early 2010s, its original mandate was overshadowed by a growing tendency to act as a bloc—a cabal, if you will—capable of challenging the federal executive, manipulating the legislature, and stifling local government autonomy. The consequences of this transformation have been dire. My voice, my letters, my pleas—perhaps they were seen as the words of an elder in the twilight of his years, yet I persisted. I persist now because the story of the NGF, like that of Nigeria, is still being written.
“Hijacking the Constitution: A Catalogue of Overreach
The NGF’s ability to unify State Governors under a common banner could have been its greatest strength. Instead, it has often been wielded as a weapon to undermine constitutional order. Let us consider some pivotal moments:
“Undermining Legislative Independence. The NGF’s influence extends deep into both state and federal legislatures, though their impacts differ significantly.
At the State Level: Governors have reduced State Assemblies to mere extensions of the executive. Speakers and Assembly members are handpicked by the Governors, ensuring unwavering loyalty. Independent thought or dissent is met with swift political retribution, and legislative autonomy remains a distant dream. Can we truly call this democracy?
“At the Federal Level: The NGF’s manipulation of legislative processes is no less concerning. Governors often manoeuvre federal candidates, particularly Senators, ensuring their future political interests are safeguarded. The Senate, rather than being a chamber of independent thought, becomes a retirement plan for ex-Governors. This cycle of control entrenches personal gain over public service.
“When will we see legislatures that reflect the will of the people rather than the interests of the Governors? How can we rebuild these institutions to function as true checks and balances?
“”The NGF: A Force for Good or a Notorious Cabal?
Critics often describe the NGF as a notorious cabal—a characterisation that is, sadly, not without merit. Its resistance to reforms, its penchant for secrecy, its prioritisation of power over service—all these have contributed to its reputation. Yet, I believe in redemption. I believe that with meaningful reforms, the NGF can become a force for good.
“Let us imagine a reconstituted NGF. One that aligns with constitutional principles. One that serves as a true platform for collaboration rather than control. One that prioritises the people over politics. This is not beyond our grasp, but it requires vision and will. Reform is not an indictment; it is an opportunity. It is a chance to recalibrate, to recommit, and to rebuild. Will the NGF seize this moment?” – vanguard
A.I
Jan. 14, 2024
Tags: Chief Edwin Clark
