Anyaoku Warns Nigeria Needs New Constitution for Stability, Calls for True Federalism

Former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has raised concerns over Nigeria’s ability to effectively address its pressing challenges without scrapping the 1999 Constitution. Speaking at the launch of a new biography titled “The Noble Academic and Patriot: A Biography of Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun,” held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos, Anyaoku argued that the existing constitution is a fundamental impediment to resolving issues such as political instability, economic underperformance, insecurity, and systemic corruption.

Anyaoku pointed out that Nigeria, as a deeply pluralistic society, requires a true federal constitution to manage its diversity effectively. He emphasized that many successful pluralistic countries, such as India, Canada, and Switzerland, have adopted genuine federal structures to accommodate their diverse populations, ensuring unity and progress. “If our pluralistic Nigeria is to achieve true unity and political stability and to successfully tackle the serious challenges the country currently faces, it must have a truly federal constitution,” he asserted.

The elder statesman expressed his belief that if Nigeria continues to operate under the 1999 Constitution, even the most capable leaders would struggle to steer the nation towards meaningful progress. He remarked, “To those who think that the trouble with Nigeria today is the political leadership, I would say that as long as we have the 1999 Constitution as our grundnorm, not even Angel Gabriel or Malaikah Jibrin as leaders can successfully tackle the divisiveness, the underperforming economy with the resultant poverty, the insecurity, the humongous corruption, and the other major challenges currently facing Nigeria.”

Anyaoku’s comments were made during the event honouring Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun, an esteemed academic and diplomat. Recalling his interactions with Osuntokun, Anyaoku praised him for his steadfast support during his campaign for the position of Commonwealth Secretary-General, highlighting Osuntokun’s influence in rallying diplomatic backing. He noted, “I first knew of Jide Osuntokun when he was adviser to Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, General Ike Nwachukwu, and accompanied him on journeys to campaign for my candidacy.”

The biography, reviewed at the event by former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, was described as a comprehensive account of Osuntokun’s life, tracing his lineage, academic achievements, and contributions to national development. Fayemi detailed how the book project, which began in 2018, received Osuntokun’s authorisation in 2021, leading to extensive interviews and access to personal archives. He highlighted the professor’s rich family history, marked by military service in the Kiriji War and economic ventures in Ghana, which shaped his values and outlook.

Fayemi further emphasized the contributions of Osuntokun to Nigeria’s diplomatic and educational landscape, noting his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council at Ekiti State University. The biography captures Osuntokun’s role in shaping the university’s policies and his broader impact on academic standards in Nigeria.

The event drew notable figures, including the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who spoke highly of Osuntokun’s impact on Nigerian academia. Obi lamented the current state of role models in Nigeria, criticizing the culture of celebrating individuals who do not contribute positively to nation-building. He highlighted the disparity in societal values, where educational achievements are undervalued compared to the influence of those with questionable credentials. “We are choosing the least among us to be our role models. And that is destroying our society,” Obi remarked.

Also in attendance was the serving overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, Tunde Bakare, who shared personal anecdotes about Osuntokun’s mentorship during his time at the University of Lagos. Bakare, who unveiled the book, expressed gratitude for the professor’s guidance during a pivotal moment in his life, stating, “He and his late wife were a blessing to me at one of the most critical periods of my life.”

Bakare’s unveiling of the book was accompanied by prayers for the nation, hoping that the insights from Osuntokun’s life and achievements would inspire the next generation of Nigerians. He noted, “God Almighty will ensure that those who will read and benefit from this book will be among those who will build the nation.”

The launch was graced by several high-profile attendees, including the wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu, represented by her Senior Special Adviser on Policy, Strategy, and Logistics, Wahab Alawiye. Other dignitaries included Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso; TV anchor and former presidential spokesperson, Reuben Abati; Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Nation newspapers, Sam Omatseye; and the Lagos State Labour Party governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour. The presence of these notable figures underscored the significance of Osuntokun’s contributions to Nigerian society and the esteem in which he is held by various sectors.