Victor Attah, the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, has ignited a critical national conversation by asserting that Nigerians should not be forced to remain unified without explicit mutual consent and clearly defined terms of agreement. Speaking at a public forum in Abuja, Victor Attah emphasized the urgent need to revisit the foundational principles of Nigeria’s unity. He highlighted lingering issues such as systemic inequality, marginalization, and resource control as evidence that the current structure is unsustainable. According to him, the country’s challenges stem from its outdated framework, which has failed to reflect the aspirations of its diverse population.
Victor Attah traced these issues back to the 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates, which was executed by the British colonial administration without consultation or agreement from the affected regions. He argued that the arrangement prioritized administrative convenience over cultural and economic compatibility, creating disparities that persist to this day. Declaring that “unity must be negotiated, not enforced,” Victor Attah pointed to the growing demand for restructuring as a testament to widespread dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s existing centralized governance system. His statements resonate deeply in a country grappling with questions about its collective future.
Victor Attah Urges for a People-Centric Constitution and Decentralized Governance
Former Governor Victor Attah has called for the creation of a new constitution that genuinely reflects the aspirations and will of the Nigerian people. Speaking passionately on the topic, he criticized the 1999 Constitution as a relic of military rule, arguing that it fails to address the complexities of Nigeria’s socio-political and economic landscape. Victor Attah emphasized that a true federal structure is essential for fostering unity and equity, as it would empower states or regions to take control of their resources and development initiatives. He labeled the current centralized system as inefficient and unrepresentative of the nation’s diversity.
In his vision, a decentralized governance model would encourage healthy competition among regions, spurring innovation and sustainable development. He argued that over-reliance on federal allocations not only stifles creativity but also breeds corruption and waste. By granting states greater autonomy, Victor Attah believes Nigeria can unlock its full potential and create a more equitable system that benefits all citizens. His call for a federal system has been widely praised by advocates of restructuring, who see it as a practical solution to the country’s lingering governance challenges.
Historical Context of Forced Unity
Tracing Nigeria’s history, Victor Attah reminded the audience of the lack of consultation during the 1914 amalgamation by the British colonial government. He lamented that the amalgamation prioritized administrative convenience over the cultural and economic compatibility of the regions involved.
He also pointed to the failure of successive governments to address the grievances that led to the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970). According to Victor Attah, the post-war approach of “no victor, no vanquished” has been largely rhetorical, leaving critical issues unresolved.
The Impact of Forced Unity on National Development
Victor Attah highlighted how the lack of agreement on unity terms has stifled Nigeria’s development. He argued that a system that forces unity without equity breeds mistrust and inefficiency. “You cannot develop a nation on the foundation of discontent and inequity,” he asserted.
He further explained that centralized control of resources has led to the underdevelopment of resource-rich regions, particularly the Niger Delta. The region, despite being the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy, suffers from environmental degradation, poor infrastructure, and widespread poverty.
The Way Forward: Dialogue and Consensus
Victor Attah called for an inclusive national dialogue to address these pressing issues. He urged leaders to prioritize the nation’s unity and development over political and personal interests. According to him, the dialogue should involve traditional rulers, civil society, youth representatives, and other key stakeholders to ensure all voices are heard.
He also emphasized the importance of trust and transparency in achieving a consensus. “For Nigeria to thrive, we must build a nation where every citizen feels valued and every region has a stake,” Victor Attah concluded.
Reactions and the Path Ahead
Victor Attah’s statements have elicited diverse reactions from political and social commentators. While some praised his boldness in addressing long-standing issues, others argued that his views might fuel separatist agitations.
Despite differing opinions, there is a growing consensus that Nigeria’s current structure requires urgent review. As discussions around restructuring gain momentum, it remains to be seen whether the government will take decisive steps to address these concerns or maintain the status quo.
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