A founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Tanko Yakasai, has stated that the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is not it’s problem but rather those who enforce it.
Yakasai noted this in a statement, Wednesday while reacting to a demand from the Patriots, a group of senior statesmen who recently met President Bola Tinubu and lobbied for a new constitution.
Yakasai stated that even the best-crafted constitution will fail to achieve progress and stability unless the country’s leaders change their thinking and actions.
The statement reads, “I have observed with deep concern the recent visit by some members of The Patriots to the president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where they canvassed for a new constitution for our beloved country, Nigeria.
“As a founding member of this esteemed group and an elder statesman committed to the well-being of our nation, I must express my reservations about both the process and the content of the submission made during this visit.
“First, it is regrettable that due process was not followed in articulating the views that were presented to the president. A matter of such national importance requires thorough consultation, inclusive deliberation and the consensus of all founding members.
“The exclusion of key voices, particularly in a group like The Patriots, undermines the credibility and unity of our mission. It is essential that our decisions and representations are rooted in collective wisdom and not rushed or unilateral actions.
“Second, I align with the views expressed by President Olusegun Obasanjo that the core problem facing Nigeria is not necessarily the constitution or the tenure of office. The crux of our challenges lies in the attitude and character of those who operate the constitution.”
He called on the President to exercise caution and consult widely on the demand by The Patriots.
