Northern Elders have issued a strong warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing deep concerns over a recent request by The Patriots, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Middle Belt Forum for a new constitution. Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, a prominent Northern elder and member of The Patriots, urged Tinubu to approach the proposal with caution, echoing the sentiments of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The controversy arose after The Patriots, led by Chief Emeka Anyaoku, met with President Tinubu on August 10, advocating for the drafting of a new constitution through a national constituent assembly. The group, along with Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the Middle Belt Forum, also called for the implementation of recommendations from the 2014 National Conference and the 2005 National Political Conference, which included the creation of additional states in the Southeast.
While President Tinubu acknowledged their recommendations, he stressed that his administration’s immediate focus is on economic reform, with constitutional review slated as a later priority.
Reacting to the proposal, Yakasai emphasized the importance of inclusive deliberation and consensus among all founding members before proceeding with any constitutional changes. He warned that bypassing these steps could lead to national instability and chaos. Yakasai also aligned with Obasanjo’s view that the core issue lies not with the constitution itself but with the character and attitude of those who operate it.
In a similar vein, renowned constitutional lawyer Professor Auwalu Yadudu cautioned that any reworking of the constitution must adhere to proper constitutional processes to maintain legitimacy, warning that deviations could result in disorder.
Adding to the concerns, another Northern elder, speaking anonymously, accused The Patriots of using the proposal as a “ploy to achieve Biafra through the back door,” suggesting that the call for a new constitution is an attempt to exacerbate existing tensions within the country.
