Anyaoku Leads Prominent Nigerians in Call for New Constitution, Urges Tinubu to Act Swiftly

A delegation of prominent Nigerian figures, led by former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate an urgent process to draft a new constitution for the nation. The group, known as “The Patriots,” believes the current constitution is inadequate for addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges and guiding the country toward a prosperous future.

Following a meeting with President Tinubu at the State House on Friday, Chief Anyaoku and his team briefed State House Correspondents on their proposal. The delegation stressed the importance of a new constitution, arguing that the existing document has contributed to the nation’s ongoing difficulties.

Among the notable members of the delegation were Senator Shehu Sani, renowned lawyer Mike Ozekhome, former Minister of Information Labaran Maku, Senator Ben Obi, and former Ogun State Governor Segun Osoba.

The group urged President Tinubu to promptly send a presidential bill to the National Assembly, proposing the establishment of a constituent assembly. This assembly would be tasked with drafting a new constitution that reflects the diverse nature of Nigeria. The proposed draft would then be subjected to a national referendum, allowing the people to have a direct say in its adoption.

The Patriots emphasized that this new constitution could be completed within nine months and is crucial to overcoming the systemic issues currently plaguing the country.