Group Seeks Return To 1963 Constitution

Movement for National Reformation (MNR) has called for a return to Nigeria’s Republican Constitution of 1963.

The group said the constitution was a veritable cure for the country’s defective federal system and the best democratic approach to constitutional review.

It, however, said it was canvassing that position as part of its contribution to the ongoing national discourse on Nigeria‘s restructuring, stressing that the 1963 constitution offers clarity to the members of the National Assembly‘s seeming confusion.

In a statement issued to journalists by Princess Gloria Omono Okojie, Special Adviser on Peace and Reconciliation (1999-2008) and niece to the late Chief Anthony Eronmosele Enahoro,
Group further emphasised that adopting the suspended but unabrogated 1963 Constitution could be a game-changer for Nigeria‘s democracy.

According to the group, the 1963 Constitution embodies the principles of democracy, with its opening words, ‚We the People,‘ perfectly capturing the essence of government of the people, for the people, and by the people,“ Princess Okojie said. „Using a military-handed-down constitution in a democracy is an awkwardness that should not recur.“

As the nation grapples with the challenges of democratic governance, the debate surrounding the 1963 Constitution is likely to gain momentum. With the proposed timeline for constitutional review set for 2027, many are questioning whether the country can afford to wait that long. One thing is certain: the conversation about Nigeria‘s constitutional future has begun, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds.“