A Renowned Professor, Peter Lassa has called for a drastic overhaul of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution due its inherent flaws and inability to meet the aspirations of Nigerians.
Professor Lassa disclosed this during a press briefing at the NUJ Press Centre Jos
highlighted the constitution’s shortcomings, which he believed have contributed to the country’s socio-economic woes.
According to the 85 year old professor the 1999 Constitution was imposed on Nigerians by the military, without adequate representation or input from the people. This, he argued, has resulted in a document that does not reflect the true wishes and aspirations of Nigerians.
“This constitution has constantly aided corruption because the system has been
rigged to produce the worse of the worst. A system where illegality and
criminality is rewarded and hard work and uprightness goes unnoticed and
unrewarded. We are in a retrogressive state.
“We need a new constitution that emanates from the people
which will obey it. We need a referendum where everyone’s voice will be
heard, we are all Nigerians, and no one should be more Nigerian than another”.
One of the fundamental flaws identified by the professor is the constitution’s failure to provide clear guidelines for the relationship between the federal, state, and local governments. This ambiguity, he noted, has led to conflicts and power struggles between the different tiers of government.
The professor also expressed concern over the constitution’s provisions regarding the independence of the judiciary. While the constitution guarantees the independence of the judiciary, Lassa argued that this independence is often compromised by external influences and interference.
He Further criticized the constitution’s provisions regarding the remuneration of legislators, which he believed has created a situation where lawmakers prioritize their personal interests over the welfare of their constituents.
The professor also highlighted the need for clear and unambiguous language in the constitution, citing instances where ambiguous wording has led to confusion and misinterpretation.
Lassa also advocated for the establishment of regional development commissions, which he believes would facilitate more effective development and governance at the regional level.
The professor’s while calling for a new constitution, explained that its not merely a rhetorical exercise, but believed that a constitution that truly reflects the aspirations and values of Nigerians, is essential for the country’s progress, development and good governance.
According to him, the article highlights the flaws in the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, citing issues such as lack of local government autonomy, inconsistent application of human rights, security concerns, judicial contradictions, legislative oversight, and ambiguous language.