Abuja: A former Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has emphasized the importance of maintaining a rotational presidency between Nigeria's northern and southern regions to ensure the country remains united. Sani shared his views during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sani argued that the history and diverse experiences of Nigeria necessitate the continuation of the rotational presidency arrangement. He highlighted the country's past challenges, such as violent military coups, civil war, and transitions between democratic and military governments, asserting that the nation has survived these periods and can similarly overcome current issues like banditry and terrorism.
Sani stated that citizens from multi-ethnic and religious nations feel more at ease when leadership reflects their regional identity. While acknowledging that perspectives may evolve over time, he believes the current arrangement fosters a sense of belonging and prevents any single demographic or geographic group from perpetually maintaining power.
Reflecting on historical events, Sani pointed out the attacks on oil pipelines before former President Goodluck Jonathan's tenure, illustrating that a president's regional origin does not automatically solve local problems. He mentioned former President Muhammadu Buhari's tenure as an example, noting that despite high expectations from northerners, many issues remained unresolved.
Sani predicted that eventually, Nigerians will understand that a leader's ethnic and religious identity does not guarantee solutions to national problems, potentially leading to the reconsideration of the rotational presidency concept.
Addressing recent violence in Yelewata, Guma area of Benue, Sani emphasized the urgency of resolving such issues to prevent their recurrence. He noted the broader implications for regions like Plateau and Nasarawa States, advocating for collective problem-solving among northern political leaders.
He highlighted the longstanding coexistence between Fulani herders and Tiv and Idoma farmers in Benue, urging for a deeper examination of the violence's roots. Sani suggested that current issues, such as conflicts over land and resources, require modern solutions, rather than relying on outdated approaches.