ZONING IS UNDEMOCRATIC, SAYS LAGOS LAWYER

The zoning formula entrenched in the Nigerian political system for elective offices has been described as a design that lacked the principles of true democracy.

A Lagos based legal consultant and the Chairman of New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Kofi Atiemo-Gyan made the remark recently while exchanging views with newsmen on recent developments in Nigeria's political sector. He also advised the Federal Government to abolish the traditional quota system.

According to him, globalisation and sociological advancement had made the system obsolete in governance and public administration, adding that a critical reflection on Nigeria's political history would prove that zoning rather than achieve positive results had taken the country many steps backward.

'A country that is honestly pursuing greatness should shun tribal sentiments and believe strongly on merit and performance. There should be adequate enlightenment on how to evaluate, assess and elect leaders in all strata of the society.

Zoning will cheaply give position of responsibility to rogues and criminals while the quota system will deny eligible persons the opportunity to contribute to national development,' he said.

Atiemo-Gyan, who is the Patron of National Association of Ghanaian Community in Nigeria advised Ghanaians resident in the country to be peaceful, law abiding and tolerant as Nigeria prepares for another general election, adding that Nigerians should take a cue from the last elections in Ghana which was devoid of trouble and violence.