The idea of selecting leaders in Nigeria via the zoning system should be applauded; it is just that the application of the zoning is where the error is. If we have six geopolitical zones and insist that each zone must take turns then why do these zones compete against each other in every election? If the rule is not about numbers and parties but about recognizing the various religious & ethnic sensitivities which is much deeper, then why the cross geopolitical competitions?
The zoning system should therefore be redesigned to allow all the six geopolitical zones to participate directly in leadership with each zone bringing its sweet or bitter flavour to governance. Zoning should be done in such a way that the outcome of the election will fall to the zone whose turn it is to rule.
Every geopolitical zone & parties should be able to present a candidate from the zone whose turn it is to take over power, this means that every political party can present candidates from the same zone to represent their interest.
For example: since the South-south and the south-west has done their turns the next election should be zoned to the South-east. Every geopolitical zone or political party should therefore present a South-east candidate for all Nigerians to choose from that way the outcome will fall to that zone making our elections less predictable.
The next geopolitical zone in the north whose turn it is in the north should present candidates from that Northern geopolitical zone, the Southern zones will also present a candidate from the northern zone too for Nigerians to choose from. Making it less complicated.
This will further enhance the relationship between all geopolitical zones and encourage the spirit of one Nigeria.
Reduce the need to rig elections. Making it more competitive in terms of leadership qualities, development and general output of the leaders.
Security is also guaranteed since the competition is zoned to one place and not against another zone then any political attacks will be contained within that zone.
The formula should be made clear for generations to come by passing it into law.
South-east President with North-east Vice
North-west President South-west Vice
South-south President North-central etc. And rotated again where those in the Vice positions takes turn to lead.
Each geopolitical zone can have a taste of power thereby halting the old agitations arising from marginalization.
If the Northern zones have come together to present Amechi from South-east then the South-west should present their South-east candidate or join with the South-east to create a formidable opponent against the northern choice. Simple!
With time they will also see the need to reduce the number of political parties.
Jagaban may have to play the role of a King maker once again because we can all see the political formulas are changing. Jagaban pioneered the change that PMB vocalized so he may just continue his call to support those who will do the job of building this nation.
May wisdom prevail. Amen.
Prophetess Lily-Rose💜
