In Nigeria, citizens advocate for electoral and constitutional reforms to promote good governance, especially at the grassroots level. Concerns over poverty and socio-economic challenges were highlighted during a webinar hosted by the African Leadership Group. Key speakers, including Femi Falana, emphasized the inadequacy of the 1999 constitution and the need for reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Nigerians are calling for electoral and constitutional reforms to enhance good governance, particularly at the grassroots level, ahead of the upcoming general elections. Many express concern over the pervasive poverty and socio-economic challenges that persist in the country, emphasizing that the 1999 constitution is inadequate in ensuring accountable leadership and proper resource management.
During a recent webinar by African Leadership Group, titled “Redefining Nigeria,” participants voiced the need for significant reforms. Lawyer and human rights advocate Femi Falana highlighted the increasing poverty in Nigeria despite its vast resources, criticizing President Tinubu’s administration for worsening the economic situation. Falana asserted the necessity for the government to reclaim control over natural resources to better support local governments.
Funke Awolowo emphasized the importance of identifying the needs of Nigerians and urged elite engagement with ordinary citizens. Tony Nnadi called attention to the outdated nature of the 1999 constitution, stating it is unfit to resolve current socio-economic issues. He pointed out the rising costs of living and the failures of governance attributed to the current constitutional framework.
Professor Adenike Grange stressed the essential role of grassroots citizens in discussions about the country’s future, insisting they should have a voice in shaping changes. Akin Fapohun declared that amending the 1999 constitution is vital and suggested postponing the 2027 elections to focus on this process.
Oluyinka Oyeniji echoed the call for greater collaboration with the National Assembly to ensure comprehensive constitutional amendments are made, affirming that entering the elections under the current constitution could be detrimental to national progress.
The webinar participants underscored the pressing need for constitutional and electoral reforms in Nigeria, particularly to combat poverty and improve governance. Femi Falana’s remarks and the contributions from various participants spotlighted the inadequacies of the 1999 constitution in addressing the country’s socio-economic issues. A unified call emerged for grassroots engagement and a thorough constitutional amendment process before the next elections.
Original Source: businessday.ng
