The national question, insecurity and the Asaba declaration By By Segun Tomori Recently, Southern Nigeria Governors met in Asaba and made some far-reaching resolutions on the state of the nation, which is now famously referred to as the “Asaba Declaration”. The meeting coming on the heels of worsening insecurity in the country, agitation by some ethnic jingoists and the unending menace of murderous herdsmen generated nationwide attention. Indeed, the bi-partisan nature of the meeting and the unanimity displayed by the 17 governors showed they meant serious business. Restructuring within the context of true federalism and the ban on open grazing formed the core of the declaration. Major highlights include the clamour for state police, devolution of powers, review of revenue formula in favour of federating units and the need for a national dialogue to discuss the national question.