MNR Calls For Return To 1963 Constitution

The Movement for National Reformation (MNR) has called for the restructuring of Nigeria, advocating a return to the 1963 Constitution amended to reflect contemporary realities, and believes this will promote a peaceful and inclusive approach to federalism in the country.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja during the unveiling of stickers with the message “Restructure Nigeria,” MNR’s North Central zonal coordinator, Jonathan S. Akuns, emphasised the importance of dialogue over violence in achieving national cohesion.

“Now that we have nurtured democracy for over 20 years, it is time to return to a real federal system of governance,” Akuns said.

He tied the call for restructuring to the centenary commemoration of the birth of Chief Anthony Enahoro, a prominent nationalist and founder of the MNR.

Akuns stressed that non-violent approaches to restructuring have been effective globally, citing the dissolution of the former USSR as a key example.

“Violence would not be a useful approach to anyone at all. Non-violent dialogue and conversation are the way to go,” he said.

The MNR proposes recalling the 1963 Constitution, which was suspended by military decree in 1966, and updating it to address current realities.

Akuns explained that under this framework, the existing 36 states would serve as federating units, with provisions for boundary adjustments and referenda to allow homogeneous or heterogeneous ethnic groups to form their own units.

“The 1963 Constitution provides a legal framework to pursue the re-federalization agenda,” Akuns noted, adding that this would enable Nigeria to organise and manage itself effectively while fostering national unity.

Akuns highlighted the security implications of restructuring, stating that the establishment of state police under a re-federalized system would be inevitable and would improve security nationwide.

He urged the National Assembly and the president to act promptly, warning that delays could exacerbate violence and insecurity in various parts of the country.

Marking the 100th birth anniversary of Chief Enahoro, Akuns called on Nigerians to embrace dialogue to achieve peace and development. “The time to re-federalize Nigeria is now.

Any further delay will not serve the interest of peace and progress,” he said.