Yakasai criticizes calls for new constitution, says leadership attitude is Nigeria’s core issue

Tanko Yakasai, a founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, has stated that Nigeria’s problems stem not from its constitution but from those operating it.

Yakasai made this remark in response to a recent call by The Patriots, a group of elder statesmen who visited President Bola Tinubu and advocated for a new constitution.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Yakasai expressed concern over the push for a new constitution, emphasizing that without a change in the mindset and behavior of Nigeria’s leaders, even the best-drafted constitution would fail to bring about progress and stability.

“I have observed with deep concern the recent visit by some members of The Patriots to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where they canvassed for a new constitution for our beloved country, Nigeria,” Yakasai said. “

“As a founding member of this esteemed group and an elder statesman committed to the well-being of our nation, I must express my reservations about both the process and the content of the submission made during this visit.”

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Yakasai criticized the lack of internal consultation within The Patriots before presenting their views to the president, arguing that such a significant national matter requires thorough deliberation and the consensus of all members.

He warned that excluding key voices within the group undermines the credibility and unity of their mission.

“First, it is regrettable that due process was not followed in articulating the views that were presented to the president. A matter of such national importance requires thorough consultation, inclusive deliberation, and the consensus of all founding members. The exclusion of key voices, particularly in a group like The Patriots, undermines the credibility and unity of our mission,” he said.

Yakasai also echoed the sentiments of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, asserting that Nigeria’s core issue lies not in the constitution itself but in the attitude and character of those tasked with its implementation.

He urged President Tinubu to approach the demands for a new constitution with caution and to seek wide-ranging consultations.

“The crux of our challenges lies in the attitude and character of those who operate the constitution,” Yakasai added. “The president should tread carefully and consult widely on the demand by The Patriots.”