Rotate Presidency For Peace To Reign – Gowon

By TUNDE OGUNTOLA  |

Ahead of the 2023 presidential election, a former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has called for the zoning and rotation of the presidency among the six geo-political zones of the country.

This, he said, remained paramount for tranquility, development and growth of the country.

Gowon, who spoke yesterday at the 100th anniversary of the Barewa Old Boys Association (BOBA) on the topic: “Barewa College at Centenary, Past Present and Future,” also recommended that there should be two vice presidents, one from the zone where the president hails and the other should be elected and voted to power during the presidential election.

“Also, among the 19 northern states the Nigerian presidential position should be rotated,” he said.

He stated that no ethnic group is better outside the nation than inside as one united Nigeria. He noted that Insecurity was giving the northern region a bad name and image.

The former Nigerian leader noted: “Insecurity is giving the northern region a bad name and image and the need to make the North peaceful again cannot be overemphasized.

“Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping have threatened the peace and tranquillity needed for educational development in our land.

“Insecurity in any nation threatens development, law and order. Insecurity must be ruthlessly dealt with collectively to pave way for the development of the education sector and development.”

He also said the governorship position in all states of the federation should be rotated among the three senatorial districts in each state, adding that this would help lessen the burden and cry for marginalisation.

Gowon stressed the need for the nation to be united, saying any attempt to scrap the powers of local governments should be rejected.

He said, “Barewa College has produced leaders in all facets of life. Barewa College alumnus has been working together for the development of the…