described the current composition of the second schedule of Nigeria’s
constitution as not development driven.
Alhaji Atiku made this declaration while speaking with journalists on the
sidelines of the 10th anniversary symposium of Late Sen. Abraham Adesanya
held at the Muson Center, Lagos on Wednesday.
Speaking on his advocacy for a proper restructuring of Nigeria, the former
vice-president noted that his approach towards achieving the restructuring
agenda will be to review the contents of the Exclusive, Concurrent and
Residual lists.
According to him: “I have had people come to me to ask how I intend to
achieve the restructuring agenda in six months and my answer to them all is
that the process is not a rocket science.
“A serious minded government that knows how to listen and build consensus
can restructure Nigeria for the benefit of all and this I undertake to do
when I become the president. Some politicians will tell you it is a
daunting task but the reality is that they are not really sincere and
committed to ensuring its actualization. They play lots of politics with it
and when agitations box them to a corner, they setup smokescreen
committees.
“It’s all about the willpower which many will agree I possess in abundance.
“Indeed the federal government can voluntarily withdraw from most of the
items listed in the exclusive lists of our constitution. I believe that the
benefits accruing from these first steps will help us as we move towards
the changes that require amendments to our constitution.
“The major task is recomposing the second schedule which does not encourage
development and when you enjoy a cordial relationship with the National
Assembly and see it as an independent partner in progress rather than as a
competitor, you can achieve great things,” he said.
The anniversary was attended by former President, Olusegun Obasanjo; former
Head of State and Chairman of the occasion, General Abdulsalami Abubakar;
former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel; former Secretary
General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Dr (Mrs) Doyinsola
Abiola, amongst many other dignitaries.