Sodeinde QuadriHigh-profile figures including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and a cadre of former governors, diplomats, legal experts, and elder statesmen gathered at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos for a colloquium titled ‘National Dialogue on the Future of Nigeria.’ The event, dedicated to honoring the late legal luminary Prof. Ben Nwabueze, drew attention to the pressing need for constitutional reform.
Among the attendees were former governors Obong Victor Attah (Akwa Ibom State), Donald Duke (Cross River State), and Senator Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto State), alongside representatives of traditional institutions like Oba Adewunmi Olayigbade, representing the Ooni of Ife, and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, leader of Afenifere. The distinguished gathering underscored the broad-based support for a thorough examination of Nigeria’s constitutional framework.
Chief Emeka Anyaoku delivered a compelling address, asserting the inadequacy of the current 1999 Constitution in addressing the nation’s challenges. He emphasized the success of pluralistic nations that practice true federalism, advocating for a similar approach in Nigeria. Anyaoku outlined the deterioration in crucial areas such as security, economic well-being, infrastructure, and social cohesion, underscoring the need for urgent constitutional reform.
Anyaoku proposed two options for reform: adopting the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference or convening a directly elected constituent assembly. He called for a focused dialogue on the constitution-making process, citing historical precedents and expert insights as guiding principles.
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Governor Sanwo-Olu echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of broad-based participation in constitutional reform. He urged for grassroots involvement in the amendment process, stressing that the responsibility for reform should not rest solely with the National Assembly. Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need for a collaborative approach, empowering citizens to shape Nigeria’s constitutional future.
The colloquium provided a platform for robust discussions and exchanges of ideas, reflecting a shared commitment to constitutional reform. As the dialogue continues, stakeholders remain optimistic about the prospects for meaningful change that will address Nigeria’s evolving needs and aspirations.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, highlighting the imperative of sustained engagement and collaboration in advancing Nigeria’s democratic ideals and national development agenda.
