On Thursday 2nd May 2024, National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) held a consultative meeting with some key stakeholders in the efforts to promulgate a new Constitution for the country. The consultative meeting considered four options for Nigeria to resolve the constitutional dispute. These are:
1. Amendment of the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly
2. Adoption of the 2014 National Conference Report with its draft Constitution.
3. Adoption of the 1963 Republican Constitution and amendment of the same to reflect current realities.
4. A new Constitution developed by the ethnic nationalities.
On 11th July 2024, NCEF took a position on the matter and resolved to adopt the draft constitution of the 2014 National Conference. The Christian Elders considered the urgency of having a new Constitution to stabilize the country and well as revive the economy. The Christian Elders expressed concern at the restiveness in the society and passed a resolution to write an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately announce the adoption of the draft constitution of the National Conference.
To solve the problem of legitimacy, the Christian Elders proposed that government should organize a referendum for Nigerians to adopt the draft constitution. Once the document passes through the referendum, it becomes a legitimate Constitution for the country.
National Christian Elders Forum urges the Tinubu Administration to give serious consideration to this proposal in view of agitations for nationwide protest in August 2024. The Christian Elders advised that it is imperative that the protest is averted to save lives and prevent destruction of national assets. NCEF believes that the announcement of a new constitution will calm the populace as it promises rejuvenation of the economy as well as the promotion of justice, equality, and fairness in Nigeria.
The issues considered in the paper of the NCEF are as follows:
1. The imperative of a new Constitution for Nigeria
2. Credible fight against corruption
3. Independence of the Judiciary and restoration of judicial integrity
4. Averting the proposed national protest planned for August 2024
God bless Nigeria.
NCEF
21st July 2024