In pursuit of a truly democratic Nigerian Constitution, The Patriots, led by former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, are set to meet the leadership of the National Assembly in April.
This engagement with both the Senate and the House of Representatives follows an earlier meeting with President Bola Tinubu on August 9, 2024, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
A Call for a People’s Constitution
The Patriots, a group of distinguished Nigerians advocating for constitutional reform, includes notable figures such as Ike Nwachukwu, Tanko Yakasai, Olusegun Osoba, Alani Akinrinade, Anya O. Anya, Idika Kalu, Obiageli Ezekwesili, Philip Asiodu, Pat Utomi, Solomon Asemota (SAN), Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Obong Attah, Anthony Kila, and Labaran Maku.
The group remains steadfast in its demand for President Tinubu to convene a Constituent Assembly that will allow Nigerians to negotiate a Constitution that genuinely represents their aspirations. According to The Patriots, only a Constitution rooted in the will of the people can address Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including economic hardship, corruption, and insecurity.
Push for Constitutional Amendment and Referendum Clause
During a gathering on Wednesday at the FRA Williams Chambers in Lagos to mark the 20th memorial anniversary of their founding chairman, Chief FRA Williams, The Patriots reiterated their commitment to constitutional reforms.
Speaking to journalists, the group’s General Secretary, Mr. Olawale Okunniyi, emphasized the need for the National Assembly to amend Sections 8 and 9 of the 1999 Constitution to introduce a Referendum/Plebiscite clause, allowing Nigerians to demand constitutional changes at any time.
Responding to inquiries about the 2014 National Conference, Okunniyi argued that while it had broad representation, it lacked legitimacy because it was not subjected to a referendum.
"On August 9, 2024, we met with President Bola Tinubu and stressed the need to replace the 1999 Constitution, which has hindered our national progress," Okunniyi stated.
"We demand that the President immediately convene a Constituent Assembly to allow the people to negotiate their existence. The current Constitution is fundamentally flawed, supports corruption, and benefits only two percent of Nigerians. We need a Constitution that truly serves the people, especially the poorest of the poor."
Engagements with Key Stakeholders
Okunniyi revealed that The Patriots have already reached out to the leadership of the National Assembly, and their scheduled meeting will take place in April. He noted that the Senate and House of Representatives may meet them jointly or separately, but both engagements will occur on the same day.
He also criticized former President Goodluck Jonathan for failing to present the 2014 Confab report as a bill to the National Assembly, which could have paved the way for a referendum.
While calling for a new Constitution, Okunniyi acknowledged that documents such as the 2014 Confab report and the 1963, 1979, 1989, and 1993 Constitutions would serve as working materials when a Constituent Assembly is convened.
Beyond their engagement with the National Assembly, The Patriots plan to extend their advocacy to labor unions, influential leaders, regional leaders, and traditional rulers across the country. Okunniyi confirmed that zonal advocacy outreaches would also begin in April.
Support for Constitutional Reform
At Wednesday’s memorial event, several notable figures, including Prof. Anthony Kila, Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Fafa Dan-Princewill, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ezenwa, and Kayode Williams (son of the late FRA Williams), lent their voices to The Patriots’ cause.
In his remarks, Kayode Williams expressed confidence that the group’s agitation would yield results, affirming his belief that President Tinubu supports true federalism. Another family representative, Folarin Williams, stressed that a new Constitution is crucial for establishing a proper federal structure in Nigeria.
