To discuss the continuous call for constitutional reforms in the nation, President Bola Tinubu recently convened a crucial meeting with The Patriots, a group of distinguished Nigerians led by Chief Emeka Anyaoku, the former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The Patriots, well-known for their enduring dedication to Nigeria’s democratic advancement, urged the President to consider calling a national constituent assembly. The responsibility of drafting a new people’s constitution would be saddled on this assembly, which would be made up of duly elected representatives from each state and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Based on proposals from several national conferences, including the 2014 National Conference, and historical constitutional frameworks like the 1960 and 1963 constitutions, the panel stressed how important it is that this constitution reflect the diversity of Nigeria. Anyaoku highlighted the need of holding a national referendum on the new constitution so that Nigerians may directly decide whether or not to approve it. He noted that such a constitution would be a genuine representation of the will of the people and would be essential in dealing with the nation’s intricate diversity and governance issues.
Constitutional reform would be given considerable thought.
Responding, President Tinubu expressed his admiration for The Patriots and admitted the validity of their requests. He acknowledged that the need for constitutional reform has been a recurring theme in the country’s talks. Tinubu cited the diverse nations of Canada and India as instances of successful unification achieved using addressing diversity through constitutional measures. The group received assurances from Tinubu that their demands for a national referendum and constitutional reform would be given considerable thought. The president did, however, stress that economic reform—which he views as essential to long-term, sustainable growth and development—is the administration’s top priority right now.
Tinubu noted that after major advancements are made on the initial focus, his administration would re-examine the matter of constitutional change. The President assured Anyaoku and other members of the group that they would be invited to participate in more discussions on the proposed constitutional revisions. Over the years, Many Nigerians believe that the 1999 constitution was influenced by the military and that the phrase “We the people” does not accurately reflect them. As a result, multiple actors have been promoting change. Nevertheless, there have been no notable revisions to the 1999 constitution other than the first, second, and third changes that were implemented during the Sixth Assembly (2007–2011).
Major changes to the constitution remains a dream.
Regardless of the significant governmental resources invested in the process, the Seventh Assembly’s (2011–2015) attempt to review the constitution met a deadlock. In 2021, Nigeria’s National Assembly began holding public hearings to converse about possible amendments to the 1999 Constitution. National security, state police, local government autonomy, and federal restructuring are just a few of the key topics that were up for discussion. Several attempts have been undertaken, but major changes to the constitution remains a dream, often due to political squabbles and the complicated amendment procedure.
The 2021 hearings represented a new round in Nigeria’s difficult process of constitutional revision. Despite the failure of previous attempts, a growing number of stakeholders and critics are calling for a people-driven constitution to address the under-representation of the public in the process and content of the military-led 1999 Constitution development. Nigerian organizations and people have persistently called for constitutional revision, indicating a general dissatisfaction with the existing structure. For example, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere has been a strong proponent of constitutional reform and restructuring.
Related Article: Nigeria is pursuing major economic changes
Afenifere pressed for a return to true federalism, arguing that the existing constitution does not sufficiently reflect the interests and ambitions of Nigeria’s numerous ethnic groups. Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who advocates for the Igbo people, has also led the front in calling for constitutional changes. They contend that these reforms are essential for the stability and advancement of the country and have stood up for increased representation, equity, and the decentralisation of authorities. A number of CSOs have also pushed for constitutional changes, including groups like the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).