Nigerians are advocating for crucial electoral and constitutional reforms ahead of the 2027 elections, emphasizing the need for effective governance and accountability. A recent webinar organized by the African Leadership Group featured notable speakers who expressed concerns over poverty and the failures of the 1999 constitution. They called for immediate action to amend the constitution and ensure that the voices of ordinary citizens are heard in discussions regarding Nigeria’s future.
Nigerians are calling for electoral and constitutional reforms ahead of the upcoming general election, emphasizing the need for good governance, particularly at the grassroots level. The urgency for change was highlighted during a recent webinar hosted by the African Leadership Group (ALG), attended by legal expert Femi Falana and other notable figures. Participants expressed concern over widespread poverty and economic issues, attributing these challenges to the limitations of the 1999 constitution, which they believe fails to provide accountable leadership and effectively manage national resources.
Femi Falana criticized the current state of Nigeria, pointing to the increasing poverty rates despite the nation’s abundant resources. He condemned the economic policies implemented by the administration of Bola Tinubu, arguing they have exacerbated hardships for ordinary citizens. Falana asserted, “Our country has no business with poverty; what of the minerals which are found abundant in the country? The rich are given licenses to look for minerals; the government should take over the resources of the country.” He urged citizens to hold their leaders accountable at all levels and combat the monetization of the electoral process.
Funke Awolowo, another participant, stressed the importance of understanding the needs and aspirations of Nigerians moving forward. She urged the political elite to engage with ordinary citizens on significant issues. Meanwhile, Tony Nnadi traced the ongoing socio-economic difficulties to the unitarist nature of the 1999 constitution. He described it as an impediment to progress, advocating for a comprehensive overhaul to address the high costs of governance and citizens’ fundamental needs, such as food and electricity.
Adenike Grange highlighted the importance of incorporating the voices of impoverished citizens in discussions about Nigeria’s future. Akin Fapohun emphasized that the current amendment processes of the 1999 constitution are crucial for the country’s recovery, recommending that the scheduled 2027 elections be postponed until these reforms are finalized. Oluyinka Oyeniji echoed this sentiment, calling for deeper engagement with members of the National Assembly to ensure that constitutional changes proceed without further delay. He remarked, “Constitutional amendment started two years ago; it’s inevitable, we cannot go into the 2027 election without it.”
Nigerians are increasingly recognizing the need for constitutional and electoral reforms to address persistent poverty and socio-economic challenges. Participants at the ALG webinar highlighted the inadequacies of the existing 1999 constitution, calling for leaders to be held accountable and voices from all sectors of society to be included in discussions about the nation’s future. The urgency for reform is clear, as stakeholders agree that the upcoming elections cannot proceed without addressing these critical amendments.
Original Source: businessday.ng
