The idea is a laudable one in itself. I agree that we as a nation need to dialogue on certain issues that concern us as an entity but the process leading to the convening of the conference is faulty and except the right things are done the possibility of success is minimal. For one, there is a problem with the timing of the conference which is suspicious. Such a weighty discussion must be properly timed. This is not so in view of its conflict with the forthcoming elections in Ekiti and Osun states and the 2015 general elections. Questions must be asked why the conference is being done at this particular time when the federal government has credibility and poor performance challenges. Aso I am not comfortable with the fact that the convener of the conference is an interested party that has a huge stake in the decisions expected to be reached at this gathering. How are we sure that he would be able to absolve himself of bias and would not seek to manipulate the entire process? Don’t forget that the conference was called by the executive fiat of the originator who is the selector of the moderator, the deputy and the scribe of the conference among other delegates that he appoints to the conference. Going by the delegate selection process and the structure it is obvious that the conference would not be free from manipulations from the convener. Also there is no legal framework for the entire process and this is worrisome as that serves as the foundation for the success of such an enterprise. We need to look at the origination of the conference and find out if it has any legal basis. The manner of selection of the delegates is suspect and calls for scrutiny. It is not democratic. The appointment of the delegates is tele-guided entirely by the executive and this will not engender popular confidence and objectivity. Much more disturbing for me is the fact that we will soon have a constituent assembly that is not democratically elected but appointed by the executive and its cohorts who will seek to push for laws that constitutionally are expected to be enacted by a referendum or the elected parliament. So why is it now that you decided to voice your concerns? Some of these senators are either too slow or have a great capability of reading public opinion and then copying it as theirs. Abegi
Posted on: Sat, 01 Feb 2014 08:54:39 +0000