By Editor
In a powerful and unprecedented address, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku issued a scathing condemnation of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, calling it a flawed foundation incapable of unifying the nation or supporting economic growth, security, and effective governance. Speaking at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) during the launch of The Noble Academic and Patriot: A Biography of Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun, Anyaoku did not hold back. His criticism extended beyond mere legal discourse, suggesting that even with angelic leadership, Nigeria’s persistent challenges—corruption, economic stagnation, divisiveness, and insecurity—would remain deeply entrenched as long as the 1999 Constitution remained the “grundnorm” of governance.
The Constitutional Flaw: Nigeria’s 1999 Document Under Scrutiny
At the heart of Anyaoku’s address was his assertion that the 1999 Constitution, a relic born out of military intervention, has set Nigeria on a path of persistent turmoil. The esteemed elder statesman drew from Nigeria’s richly pluralistic makeup, emphasising that as long as the country continues to operate under a centralised structure masquerading as federalism, its complex societal challenges cannot be effectively addressed. Anyaoku drew parallels with pluralistic nations that have thrived under truly federal constitutions, such as India, Canada, and Switzerland. In his view, Nigeria’s so-called federal system is a facade, concealing a highly centralised and oppressive approach to governance that fails to cater to the diversity of its regions and people.
Nigeria’s historical structure, rooted in cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity, necessitates a decentralised governance model. According to Anyaoku, the only way to achieve political stability, foster unity, and address the socio-economic and security issues facing Nigeria is by enacting a truly federal constitution that respects regional autonomy and cultural distinctiveness.
“The universal lesson is that pluralistic countries which have survived as single political entities in unity and progress are those that addressed their pluralism, that is, their diversity, with genuine federal constitutions,”Anyaoku remarked. By invoking examples from international contexts, he reinforced the call for Nigeria to recognise the need for an updated constitution that reflects its demographic, cultural, and geographical realities.
The Book Launch That Sparked a National Conversation
Anyaoku’s statements formed part of his address as the chairman of the occasion, where political elites and renowned intellectuals gathered to celebrate Professor Akinjide Osuntokun, an acclaimed academic and patriot. The event, held at the NIIA in Lagos, provided an ideal platform for the former Commonwealth leader to reignite debates over the need for constitutional reform, underscoring that political leadership alone cannot resolve the country’s challenges under the current constitutional arrangement.
The biography launch of Professor Osuntokun turned into a forum for critical political discourse, with other speakers—including Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and prominent clergyman Tunde Bakare—adding their voices to Anyaoku’s appeal. Their remarks echoed Anyaoku’s urgency, highlighting a shared understanding among these leaders that Nigeria is at a crossroads and that meaningful reform cannot wait.
The Crux of Nigeria’s Troubles: A Flawed Foundation and Misguided Leadership
Anyaoku’s speech was a clarion call to all Nigerians who think leadership change alone can solve the nation’s problems. He argued that regardless of the credentials or moral fortitude of its leaders, Nigeria’s current constitutional framework inherently limits their ability to effect true and lasting change. According to Anyaoku, even figures of legendary integrity or capability could not overcome the structural limitations imposed by the 1999 Constitution, which has morphed into an impediment rather than a guide for progress.
“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 proclaimed.
This searing statement challenged long-standing beliefs about the role of leadership in Nigeria’s failures. Anyaoku’s position suggests that systemic issues embedded within the Constitution create constraints that prevent leaders from achieving transformational success, no matter their intentions or abilities.
A Nation Crying for Genuine Federalism
In his address, Anyaoku drew attention to Nigeria’s failure to adopt a genuine federalist structure, a system he believes would allow Nigeria to harness its diversity for collective growth. True federalism, he argued, would involve a radical restructuring of Nigeria’s administrative framework to grant substantial autonomy to its states, allowing each region to develop its resources and policies in ways that reflect its unique culture, economic needs, and social structure. Anyaoku’s vision for Nigeria includes regions empowered to address their own specific challenges rather than relying on a centralised authority that may be out of touch with local realities.
The 1999 Constitution, which was drafted during a military regime, centralises power to an extent that Anyaoku believes is detrimental to Nigeria’s development. This centralised system fosters an environment where state-level initiatives are stifled, and the aspirations of individual regions are subordinated to a single governing authority. The lack of true federalism, according to Anyaoku, not only alienates Nigeria’s regions but also deepens societal divides, as regions are forced to conform to a single, uniform policy framework that rarely accounts for their specific circumstances.
Anyaoku’s impassioned call for true federalism as a remedy for Nigeria’s ailing political and economic system found resonance among a cross-section of Nigerian leaders and intellectuals present at the event. The idea of constitutional reform has long been debated in Nigeria, but Anyaoku’s remarks underscored the urgency of the matter, arguing that failure to act now could leave the nation in a perpetual state of disunity, poverty, and insecurity.
Peter Obi’s Support: A Sympathetic Voice from the Political Class
Adding weight to Anyaoku’s statement was Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, who highlighted Nigeria’s flawed reward system as a key barrier to national progress. Obi argued that Nigeria’s society often elevates figures who contribute little to the nation’s growth, while intellectuals and true nation-builders receive little recognition or support. His sentiments reflected a deep frustration with a system that celebrates mediocrity over merit, which he argued exacerbates Nigeria’s challenges.
“When the National Universities Commission Secretary-General said they are looking for PhD people to teach in our universities, I called him and said, why do you want anybody to do PhD when you don’t pay them and you pay thugs 100 times what they are paid. We are choosing the least among us to be our role models. And that is destroying our society,” Obi declared.
Obi’s remarks pointed to a systemic issue in which Nigeria’s educational and intellectual capacities are undermined by a socio-political structure that undervalues academic and professional excellence. His statement implicitly linked the lack of constitutional reform to Nigeria’s broader culture of poor governance and misplaced priorities, suggesting that constitutional change could be a step toward rebuilding the nation’s value system.
Tunde Bakare’s Unveiling: A Symbolic Gesture of Hope
Adding to the clamour for change, Tunde Bakare, the Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church and a prominent political commentator, emphasised the importance of intellectual legacy and national service. As he unveiled The Noble Academic and Patriot, Bakare reflected on Professor Osuntokun’s impact on his own life, underscoring the role of intellectuals in guiding Nigeria’s youth toward productive paths. Bakare’s remarks went beyond personal reminiscences, calling attention to the kind of leadership that Nigeria needs—one rooted in integrity, scholarship, and patriotism.
“He [Osuntokun] and his late wife were a blessing to me at one of the most critical periods of my life,”Bakare said. He further expressed a wish that the lessons contained in Osuntokun’s biography would serve as a moral compass for future generations, fostering a new crop of leaders who could steer Nigeria towards unity and progress.
Through his symbolic unveiling of the book, Bakare’s comments added a spiritual dimension to the day’s discourse, framing the call for constitutional reform as not only a political necessity but a moral imperative.
Examining the Nigerian Federation: A Call for Structural Rebalancing
The voices of Anyaoku, Obi, and Bakare together painted a vivid picture of a nation in need of structural change. At the core of their argument was the belief that Nigeria’s federation, as it currently stands, does not serve its people effectively. Anyaoku’s proposal for a genuine federal constitution aligns with long-standing demands for a “true” federalism that would empower regions to address their unique challenges and tap into their potential. The centralisation of authority, a legacy of military rule, has created a top-down governance system that marginalises states and stifles local innovation.
In many ways, Anyaoku’s prescription for Nigeria mirrors the federal structures of India, Canada, and Switzerland—countries with diverse populations that have successfully used federalism to foster unity and development. India, for example, allows its states considerable autonomy over certain issues, including education and local law enforcement, enabling states to address the specific needs of their populations. Canada’s federal structure also grants significant power to its provinces, creating a balance between regional autonomy and national unity.
The Centralisation Conundrum: A Deep-Rooted Flaw in Nigerian Governance
Under Nigeria’s current system, power flows from the federal government downwards, placing immense authority in the hands of central institutions and limiting the autonomy of the states. This structure has been widely criticised for fostering dependency, encouraging corruption, and creating inefficiencies. In a nation as diverse as Nigeria, with its myriad ethnic, cultural, and linguistic groups, centralisation has bred resentment among regions that feel alienated from the decision-making process.
The 1999 Constitution, critics argue, entrenched this system, failing to account for Nigeria’s diversity and the need for a decentralised approach to governance. Anyaoku’s critique echoed the sentiments of many Nigerians who believe that the concentration of power in Abuja—a city often viewed as distant and disconnected from the realities of everyday Nigerians—has stifled local governance, impeded economic development, and fuelled a sense of disenfranchisement among the people.
A Constitution Born Out of Military Rule: Historical Context and Lingering Consequences
Anyaoku’s sharp criticisms of the 1999 Constitution must be understood in the context of its origins. Crafted under a military regime, the 1999 Constitution was drafted without the full participation of Nigerian citizens or their elected representatives. Unlike constitutions in some other federations, which are products of lengthy deliberation and consensus-building, Nigeria’s Constitution was essentially imposed by the military government with limited input from the public. Consequently, the document reflects the authoritarian tendencies of its creators, rather than the democratic aspirations of the people it governs.
This historical context underscores why many Nigerians view the 1999 Constitution as a hindrance to true democracy and federalism. The military’s centralising influence seeped into the document’s provisions, ensuring that the federal government retained substantial control over resources, security, and administrative powers. Over the years, this centralisation has created a system in which the federal government wields significant influence over state matters, making it difficult for regional leaders to address the specific needs of their constituencies.
Constitutional Reform as a Pathway to Economic Revitalisation
Anyaoku’s call for a federal constitution was not merely about political restructuring—it was also about economic empowerment. By decentralising power, he argued, Nigeria could unleash the economic potential of its states. Under a genuine federal structure, states would have more control over their resources, enabling them to attract investment, develop local industries, and create jobs. This approach, Anyaoku posited, would reduce the economic disparities that currently exist between Nigeria’s regions, fostering a more balanced and inclusive growth trajectory.
Economic data underscores the potential benefits of decentralisation. For instance, states like Lagos, Rivers, and Kano have relatively advanced economies, but their growth is often stunted by federal regulations and revenue-sharing formulas that limit their fiscal autonomy. A federal structure that allows these states to retain a greater share of their generated revenue would empower them to invest in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare—addressing the specific needs of their populations and fostering a more equitable distribution of resources across Nigeria.
Reimagining Revenue Allocation: Addressing Economic Inequities
One of the key components of Anyaoku’s argument for true federalism is the restructuring of Nigeria’s revenue allocation system. Currently, the revenue-sharing formula disproportionately benefits the federal government, with states receiving a smaller share of nationally generated income, particularly from natural resources. This arrangement has stifled the economic autonomy of states, leaving resource-rich regions impoverished while centralising wealth in Abuja. Anyaoku’s vision would give states greater control over their resources, allowing them to generate, retain, and allocate funds in ways that align with local priorities and developmental goals.
The call for a revised revenue allocation formula is not new, but Anyaoku’s emphasis reflects a growing frustration in states that feel marginalised. By giving states a larger share of revenue, particularly from natural resources like oil, minerals, and agricultural outputs, true federalism could empower these states to invest in industries, create jobs, and improve local infrastructure. The fiscal independence of each region could also reduce the unhealthy competition for federal positions that has historically contributed to corruption and political instability.
Tackling Nigeria’s Security Challenges through Federalism
Security has been a pressing concern for Nigeria in recent years, with increasing instances of terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and communal violence. Anyaoku and other proponents of true federalism argue that restructuring the constitution to allow state-level policing could be pivotal in addressing these security challenges. Under the current structure, all major law enforcement agencies are controlled by the federal government, which limits the ability of states to respond effectively to local threats.
A federalised police system would allow each state to establish its own law enforcement agency, tailored to its unique security needs. For instance, states in the North facing threats from extremist groups could establish anti-terrorism units, while states in the South could focus on maritime security and combatting oil theft. By decentralising the security apparatus, Nigeria could create a more responsive and efficient system that empowers local authorities to take the lead in securing their regions.
However, critics argue that this model could exacerbate existing ethnic and political tensions, as powerful local leaders might use state police forces for personal or political gain. To address these concerns, Anyaoku and other reformists suggest implementing safeguards that would prevent the abuse of power and ensure that state police forces operate within the bounds of the law.
Anyaoku’s Call as a National Awakening
Beyond the technicalities of constitutional reform, Anyaoku’s speech resonated as a broader call for a national awakening. His critique of Nigeria’s current system touched on the deep-seated issues of corruption, injustice, and inequality that have plagued the country for decades. Anyaoku’s message was a plea for Nigerian citizens to push for a government that truly represents their interests and respects their rights, urging people to look beyond short-term gains and tribal affiliations to build a more unified and prosperous nation.
The former Secretary-General’s remarks come at a critical time in Nigeria’s history. The country has faced numerous challenges in recent years, from economic downturns and widespread unemployment to the ongoing insurgency in the North and conflicts over resource control in the Niger Delta. In the face of these issues, many Nigerians feel disillusioned with the political class and skeptical about the future. Anyaoku’s speech served as a reminder of Nigeria’s potential, calling on citizens and leaders alike to work towards a common goal of national reform and renewal.
The Political Response: Support and Skepticism
Anyaoku’s remarks have elicited a range of responses from political leaders across Nigeria. Supporters of constitutional reform argue that his call is long overdue and that Nigeria’s future depends on embracing a new system of governance. These proponents believe that true federalism will not only address the nation’s structural imbalances but also foster innovation and competition among states, ultimately creating a stronger and more dynamic Nigeria.
However, some political figures are wary of Anyaoku’s proposals, citing fears of increased regionalism and ethnic division. They argue that decentralising power could lead to greater disunity, as regions might prioritise their own interests over the welfare of the nation as a whole. This perspective reflects a broader concern about Nigeria’s fragile unity, as the country has historically struggled to balance regional identities with a national identity. Critics warn that without careful planning and a robust legal framework, federalism could inadvertently fuel secessionist movements and weaken Nigeria’s cohesion.
Lessons from Other Federal Systems
Anyaoku’s vision for Nigeria draws on the experiences of other federal systems around the world. Countries like the United States, Switzerland, and Germany have successfully implemented federal structures that allow for regional autonomy while maintaining national unity. In these countries, states or regions have considerable control over local affairs, from education and healthcare to law enforcement and economic policy. This autonomy has fostered competition, encouraged innovation, and allowed regions to address their specific needs more effectively.
Nigeria’s proponents of true federalism argue that a similar approach could work in their country, enabling states to chart their own paths to development while contributing to the overall progress of the nation. However, implementing this model in Nigeria would require addressing the country’s unique challenges, including its complex ethnic composition, history of political instability, and entrenched centralisation. As Anyaoku acknowledged, the transition to true federalism would not be easy, but he argued that it is essential for Nigeria’s survival as a united and prosperous nation.
The Path Forward: Building Consensus and Overcoming Resistance
Anyaoku’s call for constitutional reform has reignited the debate over federalism in Nigeria, but the path forward will require broad consensus and political will. To achieve true federalism, Nigeria would need to embark on a comprehensive process of dialogue and negotiation, involving representatives from all regions, ethnic groups, and political affiliations. This process would be critical to ensuring that any constitutional changes reflect the will of the people and address their diverse concerns.
Building consensus will also require addressing the concerns of those who fear that federalism could lead to division or weaken the central government. Anyaoku and other reformists argue that with the right safeguards in place, federalism can strengthen Nigeria by creating a more balanced and inclusive system of governance. However, implementing these reforms will require overcoming significant resistance from those who benefit from the current system, including powerful political elites and bureaucrats who wield considerable influence in Abuja.
The Legacy of Anyaoku’s Vision: A Blueprint for National Unity
Anyaoku’s call for constitutional reform represents a bold vision for Nigeria’s future, one that challenges the status quo and offers a roadmap for a more equitable and prosperous nation. His emphasis on true federalism is not just about redistributing power; it is about creating a system that reflects Nigeria’s diversity and enables all regions to thrive. Anyaoku’s message is a reminder that Nigeria’s strength lies in its unity, but that unity must be built on a foundation of justice, fairness, and respect for all citizens.
As Nigerians reflect on Anyaoku’s words, they are faced with a choice: to continue under a system that has left many feeling disenfranchised and impoverished or to embrace a new model of governance that could unlock the country’s full potential. Anyaoku’s vision for true federalism offers a pathway to a more democratic, inclusive, and resilient Nigeria, but realising that vision will require courage, commitment, and a willingness to confront the challenges ahead.
Conclusion: A New Dawn for Nigeria?
Anyaoku’s call for true federalism is a clarion call for Nigeria to reinvent itself and embrace a future that is more aligned with the aspirations of its people. His message has struck a chord with Nigerians who yearn for change, but it also poses a challenge to the political class: to rise above personal interests and work towards the collective good of the nation. If Nigeria can muster the political will to implement these reforms, it could pave the way for a new era of growth, stability, and unity. However, the journey toward true federalism will not be easy, and it will require sustained effort, dialogue, and compromise.
In the end, Anyaoku’s vision offers hope—a vision of a Nigeria that is strong because of its diversity, united in its purpose, and committed to the well-being of all its citizens. As the nation contemplates the path forward, Anyaoku’s words serve as a powerful reminder that the future of Nigeria lies in its hands, and that with the right choices, a brighter future is within reach.
