…Supports Obasanjo’s position
Elder statesman, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, has advised President Bola Tinubu to exercise caution in handling the proposal for a brand new Nigerian constitution that will be produced by a 109 -member Constituent Assembly and approved through a nationwide referendum.
Yakasai, a former presidential adviser in the Second Republic, charged the President to tread carefully, consult widely and think thoroughly on the proposal as any hasty move could plunge the country into chaos and instability.
Recall that some members of The Patriots, led by a former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, made the proposal for some far reaching political reforms recently when they visited President Tinubu at Aso Rock, Abuja.
In a statement personally signed by him and released to the media yesterday, Yakasai expressed reservations about both the process and content of the submission made during the visit by the elite group. He said that as a founding member of The Patriots, it was regrettable that due process was not followed in articulating the views that were presented to the president on the political reforms.
He wrote: “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. It is essential that our decisions and representations are rooted in collective wisdom and not rushed or unilateral actions.
““Second, I align with the views expressed by President Olusegun Obasanjo that the core problem facing Nigeria is not necessarily the Constitution or the tenure of office.
The crux of our challenges lies in the attitude and character of those who operate the Constitution. Without a change in the mindset and conduct of our leaders, even the most perfectly crafted constitution will fail to deliver the progress and stability we seek.
“In the light of these concerns, I propose a more effective approach for The Patriots going forward. We must prioritise internal cohesion and rigorous debate before engaging in external advocacy”.
According to him, “Only by addressing these fundamental issues can we hope to create a Nigeria that truly reflects the aspirations of its people.
Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the principles that brought us together, and ensure that our actions are always guided by the best interests of our nation.
“Finally, I advise the President to tread carefully, consult widely and think thoroughly on this matter as it relates directly to the interests of all Nigerians if the country is not to be plunged into chaos and instability”.
