By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde
A group of respected Nigerian leaders who are known as The Patriots, have stated that the reason for their call for a new constitution is to address the country’s challenges.
According to them, the current 1999 constitution is undemocratic and has so many flaws that it cannot be simply amended. In light of this, they suggested that the elements of the 1963 constitution with new recommendations be combined to create a truly federal constitution.
This new constitution would prioritize democratic principles, accommodate Nigeria’s diversity and promote good governance and stability.
The group, led by Chief Emeka Anyaoku, responded to concerns about their meeting with President Bola Tinubu. They explained that their submission was the result of several consultations. This includes a national dialogue in March 2024.
The Patriots acknowledged that the country’s leadership lacks discipline. They also said that the problems are not just about individual conduct. They are rooted in the constitution’s fundamental flaws. They stated that a new democratic constitution is necessary for Nigeria’s unity, stability, security, and development.
The group mentioned experts who suggested that the 1963 Republican constitution and the 2014 National Constitutional Conference recommendations will help to achieve a truly federal constitution. They did not accept the claims that the current constitution is enough and that problems are only from its operators. They emphasized that both the constitution and its operators contribute to Nigeria’s challenges.
