The Patriots, a group of eminent Nigerians advocating for a new people-driven Constitution, is set to meet with the leadership of the National Assembly in April to push for constitutional reforms.
Led by former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku, the group seeks to replace the 1999 Constitution, arguing that it has hindered national progress. The upcoming engagement with lawmakers follows an earlier meeting with President Bola Tinubu on August 9, 2024, where they presented their case for a more inclusive and representative Constitution.
Among the prominent figures in The Patriots are Ike Nwachukwu, Tanko Yakasai, Olusegun Osoba, Alani Akinrinade, Anya O. Anya, Idika Kalu, Obiageli Ezekwesili, Philip Asiodu, Pat Utomi, Solomon Asemota (SAN), Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Obong Attah, Anthony Kila, and Labaran Maku.
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At an event marking the 20th memorial anniversary of their founding chairman, Chief FRA Williams, held at the FRA Williams Chambers in Lagos, the group’s General Secretary, Olawale Okunniyi, reaffirmed their commitment to constitutional reform.
He stressed that their meeting with the National Assembly would focus on amending Sections 8 and 9 of the 1999 Constitution to include provisions for a referendum, allowing Nigerians to directly influence constitutional changes.
“The 1999 Constitution is fundamentally flawed and structured in a way that benefits only a small elite while enabling corruption. We are calling on President Tinubu to convene a Constituent Assembly where Nigerians can negotiate a new governance framework that works for everyone,” Okunniyi stated.
He criticised former President Goodluck Jonathan for failing to ensure a referendum on the 2014 National Conference report, arguing that past constitutional drafts—including the 1963, 1979, 1989, and 1993 Constitutions—should serve as reference points for the proposed reforms.
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Beyond legislative engagement, The Patriots plan to take their advocacy nationwide in April, engaging traditional rulers, regional leaders, and labour unions to build consensus for a new Constitution.
Kayode Williams, son of the late FRA Williams, expressed confidence in the group’s mission, stating that President Tinubu supports true federalism and that Nigeria needs a Constitution that reflects the will of its people.
As The Patriots intensify their campaign, attention is now on the National Assembly to determine whether lawmakers will embrace the demand for constitutional changes that could redefine Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
