ZONING IS UNCONSTITUTIONAL, LET THE BEST CANDIDATE BE PRESIDENT IN 2023 YAHAYA BELLO

Yahaya Bello, governor of Kogi state, says zoning of presidency is not compulsory since it isn't recognised in the country's constitution

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, Bello said it is okay if Nigeria agrees to zone the presidency, but noted that it should be based on equity and fairness.

The governor said in 2023, the best candidate should be someone who will unite the country. "Zoning is not recognised in the 1999 Constitution. it's absolutely unconstitutional. If we must continue with the sentiment of rotational presidency, it's okay. But let's do it right in the interest of equity, fairness and justice," he said.

Bello noted that only the North-central and South-east zones have not produced a president.

"All I can say is that in factoring your 2023 equations, please allow yourselves to be guided. by national interest to input the following factors: youthfulness, courage, security, diversity, clear records in successfully managing diversity which is where most post-independence leaders of Nigeria have failed," he said.

"All talks of zoning must be the handmaid of equity or we are merely playing dangerous politics and healing the wounds of the country deceitfully."