Yakasai faults call for new constitution, says leaders’ mindset is the problem

A founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Tanko Yakasai, has disagreed with the call for a new constitution, saying Nigeria’s problem lies with those operating the current one, not the document itself.

Yakasai’s comments came in response to a recent visit by The Patriots, a group of elder statesmen, to President Bola Tinubu, where they advocated for a new constitution.

In a statement on Wednesday, Yakasai expressed concerns about the process and content of the submission made to the president. He noted that due process was not followed, and key voices were excluded from the consultation.

Yakasai emphasized that the problem with Nigeria is not the constitution, but the attitude and character of those who operate it. He aligned himself with former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s views on the matter.

He stated, “Even the most perfectly crafted constitution will fail to deliver progress and stability without a change of mindset and conduct of the country’s leaders.

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

“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.

“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. 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.”

Yakasai’s statement highlights the need for collective wisdom, inclusive deliberation, and a change in leadership attitude to address Nigeria’s challenges.