By Seyi Odewale
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, yesterday commended ‘The Patriots’ for their boldness in demanding a brand new constitution and the implementation of the 2014 National Conference recommendations, along with other past constitutional frameworks.
The Patriots, led by the former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, comprised eminent Nigerians of no political affiliations, but with patriotic concern about the peaceful co-existence of Nigerians.
In a statement by the Secretary-General of the Ohanaeze, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation also thanked the group for its unwavering commitment and patriotism towards securing a “Peoples Democratic Pluralistic Constitution” for Nigeria.
“We acknowledge the pressing need for a new constitution that addresses the defects, flaws, and shortcomings of the current Military-imposed 1999 Constitution, which lacks the clarity and strength to adequately address the demands of a pluralistic society like Nigeria.
“We believe that a true Federal Constitution, akin to those of successful pluralistic countries like India and Canada, is essential for addressing Nigeria’s diverse challenges and ensuring the unity and progress of our nation,” Ohanaeze said in a statement yesterday.
It continued, “In light of the economic challenges leading to hunger protests and the recent threats of further unrest, Ohanaeze Ndigbo aligns with President Tinubu’s focus on economic reforms to address the issues of hunger, high costs of living, and food insecurity facing the country. We believe that tangible and practical solutions must be prioritized to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians and restore stability to our nation.”
It, however, disagreed with the proposal for a National Constituent Assembly, saying: “While we support the majority of The Patriots’ demands, Ohanaeze Ndigbo respectfully disagrees with the proposal for a National Constituent Assembly at this time. Given the recent hunger protests and rumours of international interference, we believe that convening such an assembly would be ill-timed and insensitive to the current challenges facing our nation.”
