The Patriots, an esteemed group of elder statesmen and prominent Nigerians led by Chief Emeka Anyaoku, have established a consultation committee aimed at developing a new democratic constitution for Nigeria.
This move comes in response to criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s focus on economic issues over constitutional reform.
During the inauguration of the National Advocacy Committee for the new constitution, Chief Anyaoku argued that Nigeria’s current 1999 Constitution hampers effective governance and national development.
He stated, “If you send the best leaders in the world to govern Nigeria under this present constitution, they will not succeed because of the nature of the constitution. The constitution we have now impedes the development of the country because the federating units are not viable enough.”
Anyaoku emphasized the urgency of the reform, asserting that even exceptional leaders could not overcome the limitations imposed by the current constitution.
“We are not yet recommending what the content of the constitution would be,” he added, “it is the process that would produce the new constitution we are recommending.”
The 17-member committee will be chaired by Prof. Anthony Kila and co-chaired by Senator Shehu Sani. Its members include notable figures such as Alhaji Shetima Yerima, Dr. Olubunmi Wilson, Mr. Tokunbo Williams, Annkio Briggs, Chido Onumah, Mr. Joe Attueyi, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu, Samson Itodo (Yiaga Africa), Mr. Kayode Samuel, and Barr. Affiong Affiong, among others.
Chief Anyaoku noted that the decision to form the committee was influenced by a recent delegation to President Tinubu, and emphasized that the advocacy committee would also engage with the National Assembly to initiate the process for a new constitution.
He said, “The task of the advocacy committee is to mobilize the different sectors of the general public to sensitize them and get their support for the recommended democratic new constitution.”
Prof. Anthony Kila, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude for the appointment and outlined the committee’s objectives. He promised comprehensive engagement with various stakeholders, including the National Assembly, traditional leaders, students, and corporate entities, to gather input and build support for the proposed constitutional changes.
The initiative reflects growing calls for constitutional reform to address Nigeria’s persistent challenges and foster a more effective and inclusive governance framework.