Obasanjo Speaks On Biafra, Says “I Don’t Believe In True Federalism”

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described as unnecessary the call for true federalism and devolution of power; saying there is nothing like true federalism because the governors already have the powers.

In an interview with a Liberian-based news portal, African Argument, the former Nigerian leader also slammed those agitating for Biafra, saying those clamouring for the disintegration of the nation were only waiting for ship at the airport.

He said: “The protesters don’t even know what the struggle is all about, but if it gives them false hope, why not hang onto it? Let the elders handle it or ignore it until it loses momentum.

“There are elders in any community who are still respected…After all, they’re their fathers and mothers, grandfathers and grandmothers, and can still be used effectively.”

On federalism, Obasanjo said he does not believe in it and that those talking about devaluation and true federalism don’t know what they were talking about.

He continued: “I don’t believe in true federalism. What is true federalism? Why are they not accountable? What powers do they not have?

“In fact, state governors are more powerful than the president. That’s the truth.”

“If anybody tells you they want devolution or true federalism, he doesn’t know what he is talking about.

He also had some words for President Muhammadu Buhari, accusing him of not doing enough on unemployment and recession.

“Buhari has made some announcements. He has tried to keep on going in the area of agribusiness, but not enough.” “It is not yet enough to prepare the ground for uninhibited growth of the economy, which we need”.

”Is Buhari doing enough about it?” he asks at one point of youth unemployment. “I don’t believe he is. Can he do enough about it? Of course he can.”

He advised that if “youth empowerment, skill acquisition and youth employment – education are provided the ticking bomb of possible youth explosion out of restiveness and anger will subside. In fact, state governors are more powerful than the president.”