Amidst rising poverty and socio-economic challenges, Nigerians are calling for crucial electoral and constitutional reforms ahead of the next general election. Participants from a recent webinar emphasized the limitations of the 1999 constitution in addressing these issues and highlighted the need for grassroots involvement in governance and accountability from leaders. The call for reform is urgent to ensure that the upcoming elections occur under a more equitable legal framework.
Nigerians are advocating for electoral and constitutional reforms in anticipation of the next general election, emphasizing the need for good governance, particularly at the grassroots level. The discussion, highlighted during a webinar organized by the African Leadership Group (ALG) and titled “Redefining Nigeria,” featured prominent figures who expressed concerns over the continuous poverty and socio-economic challenges faced by the country due to the limitations of the 1999 constitution.
Femi Falana, a well-known lawyer and human rights advocate, lamented the deteriorating state of Nigeria, pointing out the rising poverty rate that contradicts the nation’s wealth of resources. He criticized the economic policies introduced by the Bola Tinubu administration as exacerbating issues for the populace, suggesting that the government should assume control over mineral resources to benefit the citizens.
Participants highlighted the importance of holding leaders accountable not only at the federal level but also within state governance. Funke Awolowo emphasized the necessity of understanding the desires of ordinary Nigerians, suggesting that elites must engage more effectively with citizens on pressing issues.
Tony Nnadi noted that the unitarism embedded in the current constitution hinders progress in addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic problems. He insisted that without amending the constitution, the acceptable standards of governance would remain unattainable. Meanwhile, Adenike Grange insisted that the voices of the impoverished grassroots citizens must be included in discussions concerning the nation’s future.
Akin Fapohun and Oluyinka Oyeniji both articulated the urgency of amending the 1999 constitution before the 2027 elections, pointing out that the amendment process initiated two years ago must be concluded to avoid moving forward under a substandard legal framework. Their remarks underscore the critical nature of reforming governance structures to align with the societal needs of the citizenry.
In conclusion, the call for constitutional reforms in Nigeria reflects a growing consensus that the current framework does not serve the interests of the populace. Through collective dialogue and advocacy, participants at the ALG webinar highlighted the necessity of accountability, grassroots involvement, and the urgent need for constitutional amendments to improve governance and address critical socio-economic challenges before the upcoming elections.
Original Source: businessday.ng
