The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has proposed a return to the 1964 Constitution as a remedy for the perceived shortcomings of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
This call was made by PANDEF Leader Edwin Clark during the Nkata Ndi Inyom Igbo conference held in Abuja.
Clark, represented by National Publicity Secretary Obiuwevbi Ominimini, emphasized the challenges associated with amending the 1999 Constitution, which he described as a significant barrier to progress.
He criticized the failure of state legislatures to endorse autonomy proposals from the National Assembly, highlighting what he termed the “clumsy nature” of the current constitutional framework.
The 1999 Constitution is a military document handed over to civilians. It is inherently flawed and has made governance inefficient,” Clark stated. He argued for a return to the 1964 Constitution, which allowed regional control over resources and tax payments to the central government. This structure, he noted, fostered growth at varying paces and reduced states’ dependency on federal allocations.
Clark also pointed out several issues within the current governance system, including the operations of state-level Independent Electoral Commissions, immunity provisions for governors, and a lack of inclusivity in ministerial appointments. He criticized the disproportionate representation in ministerial positions, citing that Ogun State has four ministers while regions like the South-East and South-South remain under-represented despite their economic contributions.
On the topic of inclusivity, Clark stressed that all ethnic groups should be treated equitably and specifically called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). “Nobody should be treated as a second-class citizen in their own country,” he asserted, urging the government to tackle marginalization and promote unity.
In conclusion, Clark attributed Nigeria’s challenges to leadership failures rather than issues with followership. He called for strong and visionary leaders capable of fostering an environment where every citizen is regarded as equal, stating, “With the right leadership, we can treat every citizen as a first-class citizen and create a nation where fairness and justice prevail.”
