Abstract
Although, Nigeria has enjoyed successive transition from one administration to another since the return to civil rule in May 1999, unfortunately, none of these administrations reigned without the traditional agitations for political restructuring, constitutional review, and contestation for resource control. However, understanding the pattern of the agitations in Nigeria means understanding the motives behind them, and the impacts they have on national cohesion. It is on this background that this study examined the pattern of these agitations in Nigeria with a focus on the fourth republic. Descriptive analysis was adopted and qualitative method of data collection was utilized to gather data for the study. This study finds it appropriate to adopt ‘Failed State theory’ as its theoretical framework. Following the findings of this study, it was revealed that the flows in the 1999 Constitution and failure of government to amend the contested sections of the constitution that led to the deepening agitations for restructuring and resource control and more secessionist movements in the Niger Delta and South-East Nigeria. Thus, the study suggests that the present administration should strengthen the weak institutions, ensures there is political inclusion, and restructure the economic system as measures to address the agitations in the country. The study also suggests that the present administration should amend the 1999 Constitution in order to accommodate the issues under contestation. Government should also call for a referendum to decide the faith of the pro-Biafran agitators, especially the issue of secession.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call