Ajuji Ahmed, former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South Africa, has urged President Bola Tinubu to lead a national effort to draft a new, people driven constitution for Nigeria.
Speaking in Lagos, Mr Ahmed said the 1999 Constitution was created under military oversight and no longer matches the will of Nigerians. He argued that many rules and practices in government still reflect military-era thinking and slow the country’s democratic progress.
“Nigeria must embark on a national consensus and a referendum to produce a truly people‑driven constitution.
“The 1999 Constitution does not reflect the democratic aspirations of Nigerians because it was drafted under military rule.
“Our democracy cannot mature while outdated military structures still shape civilian governance,” he said.
Mr Ahmed said a replacement charter should promote justice, fairness and merit. He called for reforms on resource control and tax policy to make the federation more balanced. He also recommended ending the quota system, arguing that appointments should reward s and competence rather than regional or ethnic calculations.
As an example of lingering military influence, he pointed to the continued use of presidential aides‑de‑camp, a practice he said lacks proper constitutional backing. For Mr Ahmed, such symbols show that Nigeria has not fully left its past behind.
He concluded that Nigerians should be given the chance to decide the nation’s basic law through broad consultation and a referendum, so the country can move forward on a clearer, fairer basis.
Do you think Tinubu should support a people-led constitution? Lets discuss the impact on Nigerian politics!
Do you think Tinubu should support a people-led constitution? Its time for our voices to be heard!
I dont see why Tinubu should be pressured for a people-led constitution. Lets focus on important issues first.
I think its about time politicians like Tinubu listen to the people! People-led constitution sounds like a step in the right direction.
Is Tinubu the key to a people-led constitution? Interesting take from the ex-APC South Africa chair. Thoughts?
I think Tinubu should listen to the people! Its time for a ce in Nigerias constitution. Lets see if he steps up.