Anyaoku coalition calls on Tinubu to convene Constitutional Assembly for draft constitution

A group of Nigerian statesmen, known as The Patriots, recently held a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The group, led by former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, urged the President to establish a constituent assembly to draft a people-oriented constitution. They proposed that the assembly should comprise three representatives from each state and the Federal Capital Territory, with the draft constitution subject to ratification through a national referendum.

Highlighting the importance of a pluralistic constitution in addressing development challenges, Chief Anyaoku emphasized the need for a legitimate democratic constitution to unify the country. Drawing examples from countries like India and Canada, he stressed the role of federal constitutions in fostering national unity.

The Patriots also recommended dialogue between the government and leaders of the ongoing hunger protests, advocating for a peaceful resolution and the avoidance of lethal force. Ultimately, they proposed a nine-month timeline for the drafting of a new constitution, underscoring the importance of public legitimacy and engagement in the process.