How A Parliamentary System Might Improve Governance In Nigeria

How A Parliamentary System Might Improve Governance In Nigeria

Chris O. O. Biose’s recent 426-page book, *Stop Zoning: Restructure Nigeria*, published in December 2023, advocates for a parliamentary system as the optimal solution to Nigeria’s persistent development challenges. Biose, a distinguished scholar and critic, underscores the importance of political parties as essential instruments for participatory governance. He criticizes the unethical practices of Nigeria’s political elites, who, he argues, use the divisive “Turn by Turn” power-sharing formula between North and South to maintain their grip on power…….. CONTINUE READING

Biose, previously known for *Zoning Debate in Nigerian Politics* (2021) and *Zoning Doctrine and the National Question in Nigeria* (2022), asserts that returning to the federalism and parliamentary democracy outlined in the 1960 Independence and 1963 Republican Constitutions would enhance democracy, justice, national unity, and development.

The book, structured into 17 chapters, begins by analyzing the role of political parties and their candidate selection processes. In Chapter 2, Biose critiques the lack of ideological orientation in Nigerian political parties, which he blames for the commercialization of party primaries and elections.

Subsequent chapters explore how power is seized and maintained by unscrupulous individuals, leading to a society rife with corruption. Chapter 5 discusses the “National Question” and the misconception that Nigeria, as a state, equates to a nation, arguing that the development of a true Nigerian nation has yet to begin.

Chapters 6 and 7 critique various failed attempts to address Nigeria’s crises, from shifts in power to religious and age-based transitions. Chapters 8 through 10 examine the flaws of regional power-sharing, which undermines meritocracy and democratic values, and Chapter 11 traces the origins of Nigeria’s resource-sharing problems back to the 1969 Petroleum Decree.

Biose also highlights how this sharing mentality has permeated Nigeria’s civil service and educational sectors, leading to systemic discrimination. Chapter 13 argues that zoning practices, rather than benefiting the masses, mainly serve the interests of elite factions. Chapter 14 criticizes the expensive and exclusionary nature of Nigeria’s presidential system.

In contrast, the parliamentary system, as detailed in Chapter 15, could streamline governance by eliminating costly elections and allowing elected representatives to choose state leaders. Drawing on Chief Anthony Enahoro’s insights, Biose suggests that the parliamentary system could better support democracy in a diverse, developing country like Nigeria, citing examples from India and the Caribbean.

The benefits of political restructuring, discussed in Chapter 16, include fostering economic self-reliance and improving security through state policing. The final chapter emphasizes the need for bold and visionary leadership to drive national transformation.

Biose’s book presents a fresh perspective on Nigeria’s political future, urging further research into African-specific models of governance. It serves as a critical resource for students, scholars, policymakers, and politicians seeking to understand and overcome the limitations of Nigeria’s current political system.

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