Former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku has advocated for a departure from Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, arguing that the country needs a federal system to truly address its diversity and promote unity.
Anyaoku, speaking at the launch of “The Noble Academic and Patriot: A Biography of Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun” in Lagos on Wednesday, warned that without constitutional reform, Nigeria’s myriad issues may remain intractable.
“To those who think that the trouble with Nigeria today is the political leadership, I would say that as long as we have the 1999 Constitution as our grundnorm, not even Angel Gabriel or Malaikah Jibrin as leaders can successfully tackle the divisiveness, the underperforming economy with the resultant poverty, the insecurity, the humongous corruption, and the other major challenges currently facing Nigeria,” Anyaoku stated.
Drawing comparisons with pluralistic nations such as Canada and Switzerland, he emphasised that sustainable unity and stability in Nigeria require a constitution that acknowledges the country’s unique diversity.
Reflecting on his longstanding relationship with Osuntokun, Anyaoku praised him as a role model, highlighting his influence and dedication to nation-building.
The event drew prominent figures, including the Labour Party’s Peter Obi, who lamented the celebration of individuals who do not contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s progress, a trend he argued is eroding societal values.
