resident Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that while the review of the 1999 Constitution is important, it will take place after the ongoing economic reforms have been consolidated to ensure Nigeria’s prosperity. He made this statement while addressing members of The Patriots, a group of eminent Nigerians, who visited him at the State House in Abuja.
This was disclosed in a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President, on August 9, 2024.
Calls for Constitution Review and Referendum
The Patriots, led by Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, have been among the voices advocating for a review of the Constitution. The group, which included notable figures such as Kanu Agabi (SAN) and Mike Ozekhome (SAN), urged the President to address the flaws in the 1999 Constitution, arguing that doing so would help solve Nigeria’s challenges as a nation.
Chief Anyaoku proposed the convening of a national constituent assembly composed of directly elected representatives from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This assembly would be tasked with drafting a new democratic constitution, taking into consideration previous constitutions from 1960 and 1963, as well as recommendations from the 2014 National Conference and other similar gatherings.
The proposed draft constitution, according to Anyaoku, should be subjected to a national referendum and, if approved, be signed by the President as the genuine people’s constitution of Nigeria.
Tinubu’s Response
In response, President Tinubu acknowledged the importance of The Patriots, describing them as a group that reflects the heart and aspirations of society. He emphasized that while constitutional review is crucial, his current focus is on economic reforms that are necessary for managing the complexities of democratic governance in Nigeria.
The President assured that once the economic reforms begin to yield the desired results, the path to a referendum and constitutional review will be seriously considered. He reiterated his commitment to the unity of Nigeria and the well-being of all its citizens, stating that he would do whatever is necessary to ensure good governance and happiness for Nigerians.
What You Should Know
The 1999 Constitution remains the supreme law in Nigeria, guiding the interpretation and application of all other laws in the country. Any legislation or regulation that contradicts the 1999 Constitution is typically invalidated by the courts.
There has been a sustained call across various quarters for the review of the 1999 Constitution, with critics arguing that it was framed by military generals without adequately considering the will of the Nigerian people.
