The focus of this paper is to examine the issue of true federalism and resource control in Nigeria, with particular reference to the Niger Delta region. Within Nigeria’s governance structure, the argument over resource control and real federalism continues to be one of the most divisive political and economic topics. Nigeria has a federal government, but the centralisation of resource distribution has caused conflict, especially in the Niger Delta region, where the majority of the country’s crude oil wealth is derived. The reason for this is the told and untold load of injustice and underdevelopment meted out to area due to the refusal of government to allow for true federalism and resource control despite being agitated for by the people. They have been brutalized and traumatized by chains of injustices from the federal government in conjunction with the multinational oil prospecting companies operating in the region. Given this scenario, this paper exposes and examines the historical development of Nigerian federalism, the concentration of power over natural resources, and the ensuing environmental and socioeconomic difficulties that the Niger Delta communities face. The study argues that the existing federal arrangement contradicts the principles of true federalism, were federating units should have greater autonomy over their resources. The paper also analyses the struggles of the Niger Delta people for resource control, highlighting legal battles, militant activism, and government responses. Furthermore, it evaluates the implications of resource control on national unity, economic development, and political stability. Lastly, the study recommends a constitutional review to grant resource-producing states greater control over their resources while ensuring equitable revenue-sharing mechanisms that benefit all regions as a way of promoting justice, fairness and sustainable development not only in the Niger Delta, but also in the country in general.
Written By
Inameti Lawrence Udo, Ph.D
Department of Philosophy,
Akwa Ibom State University
inametiudo@aksu.edu.ng,
inamsifon2004@yahoo.com
Emmanuel E. Ette, Ph.D
Department of Philosophy,
University of Uyo
isukette2014@gmail.com
Itohowo Ignatius (Ph.D in view)
Department of Philosophy,
Akwa Ibom State University
