Prominent Nigerian figures under The Patriots and the Democrats have renewed their demand for a people-centric constitution, attributing the country’s socio-economic and political struggles to the rigid 1999 military constitution. Led by former Finance Minister Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, the group visited the late MKO Abiola’s residence to pay tribute and advocate for compensation to his family, citing their hardships before and after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.
The Democracy Day National Dialogue, held alongside the June 12 Pro-Democracy Movement, focused on the theme “Democracy Without a Democratic Constitution: Which Way Forward?” Speakers emphasized the urgent need for constitutional reform, warning that Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive under the existing framework. Secretary-General of The Patriot, Comrade Olawale Wale Okunniyi, urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a national emergency on the ineffectiveness of the 1999 constitution.
Professor Anthony Kila described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigerian history, surpassing both May 29 and October 1 in significance, as it represented the people’s collective stand for democracy. Other speakers, including Prof. Pat Utomi and Dr. Maxwell Gidado, reinforced the argument for constitutional amendment, highlighting how the current system perpetuates political instability and undermines democratic values.
The discussions acknowledged the sacrifices made during the June 12 struggle, with a renewed call for Nigeria to reclaim its democratic ideals through constitutional reforms. The Patriots announced plans for a summit later in the year to push for a truly people-driven constitution.
