In recent news, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, recently visited the President accompanied by The Patriots. During the meeting, Anyaoku stressed the importance of a democratic constitution for Nigeria, a pluralistic country with complex challenges.
Highlighting examples of countries like India and Canada that have successfully managed their pluralism through federal constitutions, Anyaoku warned of the consequences of failing to address the needs of pluralism. Countries like Yugoslavia and Czechoslovakia saw their unity break down after decades due to their inability to effectively manage their diversity.
The Patriots proposed concrete measures to the President to address these challenges. They suggested the convening of a National Constituent Assembly, composed of representatives elected on a non-partisan basis by the citizens of each state, to draft a new constitution. Furthermore, they recommended a national referendum to allow the Nigerian people to have their say on the new constitution.
Discussions also focused on the recent protests across the country. The Patriots recommended dialogue between the government and protest leaders, as well as a non-violent approach by law enforcement agencies to avoid resorting to lethal force.
According to Anyaoku, the current challenges of national unity, insecurity, poverty and hunger warrant the establishment of a constituent assembly to draft a new constitution. A constitution that would provide more effective solutions to internal security, economic and social development.
Finally, Anyaoku stressed the importance of a referendum to give legitimacy to the new constitution by capturing the opinions of the citizens. He expressed confidence that this could be achieved within a reasonable time frame, estimating that Nigeria could have a new constitution in just a few months.
In conclusion, the Patriots’ proposal for a new constitution in Nigeria represents a significant step forward in the quest for governance that is more suited to the country’s current challenges. A democratic and participatory approach that could pave the way for profound and salutary reforms for the future of Nigeria.