The Patriots Clarify Push for Constitutional Reform, Call for Inclusive National Conversation
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The Secretariat of the Patriots has issued a statement addressing concerns raised by some Nigerians regarding their recent engagement with the President on August 9, 2024.
The group’s initiative to advocate for a new, truly federal constitution has been met with both support and criticism.
In a statement signed by its Secretary General, Veteran Che Olawale Okunniyi, The Patriots said, “We believe that the people of Nigeria should decide the content and outcome of the constitution through deliberations and negotiations at the proposed National Constitutional Conference.”
Mallam Tanko Yakassai, a respected elder statesman, had raised concerns about the need for wide consultations on the initiative.
The Patriots acknowledged his concerns, stating, “The submission made to the President is a product of concerted and painstaking consultations, including a National Dialogue (Colloquium) in March 2024.”
The Patriots emphasized that their position does not include details on the content of the proposed constitution, reiterating that “Nigeria’s current constitution is flawed, unitary, and undemocratic, hindering good governance and stability.”
The group welcomed all Nigerians to offer their views on the proposed Constitutional Conference, saying, “Let Nigerians of all walks of life and tribes bring up their views and throw up new ideas to make this renewed intervention a success.”
The Patriots cautioned against blackmail and throwing stones at citizens with differing opinions, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and diversity.
“The repeated, outworn tendency by some people to throw stones at other citizens who hold differing opinions from their own is shortsighted and has never helped the cause of our country,” they said.
The historic delegation that met with the President comprised 19 members, reflecting the diversity of Nigeria. The members of the delegation were:
- Chief Emeka Anyaoku, GCON, CFR (Leader of the Delegation) – South East
- Senator Ben Obi – South East
- Chief Simon Okeke – North Central
- Madam Pauline Tallen – North Central
- Dr. Pogu Bitrus – North East
- HE Labaran Maku – North Central
- Barr Abubakar Azara – North West
- Senator Shehu Sanni – North West
- Alhaji Shettima Yerima – North East
- Rear Admiral Ferguson Bobai – South South
- Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN – South East
- Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN – South South
- Lady Ann Kio Briggs – South South
- HE Boni Haruna – North East
- Dr. Abdujalilil Tafawa Balewa – North West
- Chief Olusegun Osoba – South West
- Prof Anthony Kila – South West
- Veteran Olawale Okunniyi (Secretary to the Delegation) – South West
- Chief Olawale Okunniyi (General Secretary, The Patriots)
The Patriots said they remain committed to their goal of achieving a truly federal constitution, saying, “A new democratic people’s Constitution will, no doubt, inspire and encourage a wave of patriotic values and commitments from our leaders and citizens at all levels to make our country work again.”
