The Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA) on has asked the members of the factionalised Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) to resolve their differences and focus on the delivery of the dividends of democracy. The NBA said unity among the governors would guarantee the sustenance of democracy in the country.
Also as a way of cementing the foundation of democracy in the country, the Bayelsa State Governor; Hon. Seriake Dickson tasked the legal body on true fiscal federalism, especially the issue of resource control.
Expressing concern over the crisis rocking the boat of the NGF, the NBA president, Mr. Okey Wali warned the Forum against deviating from its objectives.
According to him, the recent activities of the NGF are an eloquent testimony to the primacy of politics over provision of good governance and development for Nigerians.
He queried, ‘if not, how can the 2015 elections be in the front burner of discourse at this point in time when the election date is still far? One cannot but wonder if election of our leaders is now about acquisition of political power or display of power or for development.
The NBA President, therefore, advised members of the forum to concentrate on the business of governance so as not to incur the wrath of the electorate.
He also called for adequate equipping and training for the Nigeria Police to enable it perform effectively.
Speaking at the event, the State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson who, expressed concern over the way and manner resources were being expropriated in the country, decried the Capitalist economic philosophy describing it as the root cause of inequality and poverty in the country.
In his words: “You have a contradiction of a situation where land, which is one of the factors of production, is communalized by the state while all other factors of production remain in private hands.
“I therefore call on the Bar to lead the fight for re-establishing the federal principles in line with our federal structure where federating units should also have the right to exercise control and seek greater participation of our people in the oil industry.
On security, he expressed regret that rather than political leaders coming together to resolve the current security problems some politicians capitalize on the situation with a view to achieving cheap political gains.
Governor Dickson, who attributed the country’s security challenges to inadequate investment in the education sector, however commended the NBA for supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to combat terrorism.
In her address the state Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri urged the NBA to take a holistic look at the Legal profession towards enhancing quick administration of justice in the country.
On his part, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Francis Egele, highlighted Governor Dickson’s achievements which include, institutionalizing good governance.
