Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka, has called for decentralisation in Nigeria, saying leaders should stop taking the country for a ride.
?The Professor, who made the call on Thursday, during the 50th-anniversary lecture of Punch Nigeria Limited in Lagos, Delivering the lecture titled: ‘Recovering the Narrative’, said Nigeria requires decentralisation to enhance the well-being of its citizens.
Soyinka advocated decentralisation as a means to bring governance closer to the people. He said politicians understand the significance of restructuring but change their stance once in power.
The Professor addressed concerns about the fear of collapse or breakup, suggesting an open discussion about the situation and the possibility of a breakup.
The Nobel laureate said he preferred terms like reconfiguration and decentralisation to restructuring, adding that nations could be dissolved if it ensures the survival and dignity of humanity, emphasising the importance of addressing issues transparently.
“We live in what is known as the nation beginning as a vast football field ending up as a ping pong table. If that is going to restore dignity to citizens. If that is going to guarantee three square meals a day, then so be it. One of my favourite expressions with people is: ‘Let nations die, that humanity may live”, he stated.
