Chairman, Senate Committee on Federal Capital Territory, Sen. Dino Melaye, has opined that state-of-origin should be replaced with state-of-residence, to create unity among Nigerians.
The senator made the call on Friday in Abuja, at a ceremony to unveil the logo/medal of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, PCN, to mark PCN’s 18th year of existence.
He said the step will bring balance in relationships among the people and minimise ethnicity.
His words: “I have submitted a bill for the abolition of State of Origin. We are one united indivisible people in this country we do not need state of origin. My bill will be that instead of state of origin we should have state of residence. Where ever you reside is your state. For example Emaka can become governor of Kano State, Oluwole can decide to become the governor of Borno State and Abudul Malik can want to become the governor of Edo State. That is the Nigeria of our dream and that is for the youth to actualize.
“The PCN has demonstrated service in your labour for Nigeria in the last 18 years. I acknowledge that you are a very responsible organization and you have done well. I want to encourage you to press on and you will continue to enjoy the support of Nigerians like myself. And I the Senate President send his support and encouragement.
“He has assured me that the third reading of the bill in the Senate will be slated soonest and I want to assure you that it has been passed in the House of Representatives and I will personally supervise the concurrent in the Senate. I appreciate the Ministry of Youth and Sports for the supervisory roll and encouragement.
“I charge the Nigerian youths to shun violence; they are yet to discover their strength. This country is yours. Youth need attitudinal change.”
Leave a Reply