The patriots, chaired by elder statesman and former Commonwealth Secretary General Chief Emeka Anyaoku, have reiterated their call for a new constitution for Nigeria.
To advance this cause, the group yesterday inaugurated a 17-member advocacy committee led by Prof. Anthony Kila, a prominent political economist and professor of strategy and development.
During the inauguration, Anyaoku announced that the committee, with the primary role of engaging with major stakeholders and the public, would soon begin outreach efforts, starting with members of the National Assembly.
The event, held in Lagos and online, was attended by notable patriots including General Ike Nwachukwu, Obong Victor Attah, Prof. Anya O. Anya, Dr Bilikisu Magaro, Prof. Remi Sonaiya, Elder Solomon Asemota, Ambassador Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, and Senator Ben Obi.
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Recently, Anyaoku and the group met with President Bola Tinubu to advocate for a new constitution, sparking mixed reactions.
Some stakeholders had argued that a new constitution was not immediately necessary, suggesting that the focus should instead be on improving the conduct of politicians operating under the current framework.
In response, Anyaoku argued that even the best leaders would struggle to address Nigeria’s significant challenges under the existing constitution.
He emphasised that while the president’s focus on economic issues is appreciated, a democratic people’s constitution would better support the country’s economic development and benefit its citizens.
Anyaoku remarked, “It is widely acknowledged that our country is under-performing in many areas.”
Meanwhile, the Yoruba Intelligentsia Group and the Voice of Reason Advocacy for Social Development Foundation (VOR) have urged President Tinubu to hold a referendum to determine Nigeria’s optimal governance structure.
In an open letter, they called for a restructuring of Nigeria and recommended immediate, medium-term, and long-term measures to address socio-economic challenges.
Signed by Dr Ladi Awosika, the letter emphasised the need for a stable, prosperous, and united Nigeria, invoking Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which asserts that, “The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government.”
The group also proposed establishing a National Rebirth Commission to tackle historical injustices, promote social justice, and foster ethnic reconciliation.
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