Photo caption: Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution
By Charles Okonji
As part of concerted effort towards actualising a better democracy in Nigeria, the Movement for National Reformation (MNR) has called for a return to Nigeria’s Republican Constitution of 1963.
The group noted that the constitution was a veritable cure to the country’s defective federal system and best democratic approach to constitutional review.
The group however said it is canvassing that position as part of its contribution to the ongoing national discourse on the restructuring of Nigeria, stressing that the 1963 constitution offers clarity to the seeming confusion by the members of the National Assembly.
In a statement issued to journalist by Princess Gloria Omono Okojie, special adviser on Peace and Reconciliation (1999-2008) and niece to the late Chief Anthony Eronmosele Enahoro,
Group further emphasized that adopting the suspended but unabrogated 1963 Constitution could be a game-changer for Nigeria’s democracy.
According to the group, 1963 Constitution embodies the principles of democracy, with its opening words, ‘We the People,’ perfectly capturing the essence of government of the people, for the people, and by the people,” Princess Okojie said. “Using a military-handed-down constitution in a democracy is an awkwardness that should not recur.”
“As the nation grapples with the challenges of democratic governance, the debate surrounding the 1963 Constitution is likely to gain momentum. With the proposed timeline for constitutional review set for 2027, many are questioning whether the country can afford to wait that long. One thing is certain: the conversation about Nigeria’s constitutional future has begun, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds.”
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