Professor of Political Economy, Prof. Pat Utomi says states in Northern Nigeria have become “really unproductive” and depend majorly on the Federal Government for sustenance.
He stated this while accusing some politicians in the North of being scared of restructuring because they are uncertain about their future.
According to TheCable, Utomi spoke at a virtual media parley ahead of the ‘Never Again’ conference to mark 51 years after the civil war.
“There is a real crisis in the north that the south does not understand. They are painters of people who hate each other very much; that is the truth of the matter. That is why they are scared of restructuring because they don’t know where it will lead them, and outside of Nigeria, they are formless; there is no north,” Utomi said.
The renowned economist advised the Northern states to dismiss such fears as restructuring would lead them to higher productivity and “away from the poverty status”.
Utomi noted that the upcoming second edition of the conference will have notable speakers including Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah, while former President Olusegun Obasanjo will be Special Guest of Honour.
He further revealed that the conference will be chaired by Afenifere leader, Ayo Adebanjo and a former finance minister, Kalu Idika Kalu.
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