By DAYO ADESULU
Lagos, Nigeria — Former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has emphasized the need for Nigeria to adopt a new constitution, warning that maintaining the 1999 Constitution could prevent the nation from overcoming its current challenges. Speaking at the launch of a biography on Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos, Anyaoku underscored the importance of a federal constitution to reflect Nigeria’s pluralistic nature and manage its diverse communities.
“To those who think that the trouble with Nigeria today is the political leadership, I would say that as long as we have the 1999 Constitution as our grundnorm, not even Angel Gabriel or Malaikah Jibrin as leaders can successfully tackle the divisiveness, the underperforming economy with the resultant poverty, the insecurity, the humongous corruption, and the other major challenges currently facing Nigeria,” Anyaoku stated.
The elder statesman highlighted that pluralistic nations such as India, Canada, and Switzerland have achieved unity and stability through genuinely federal constitutions. Anyaoku urged Nigeria to adopt a similar model to ensure sustainable unity and political stability.
Praise for Professor Akinjide Osuntokun
Anyaoku commended Professor Osuntokun’s patriotism and integrity, recalling his support during Anyaoku’s candidacy for Commonwealth Secretary-General. He described Osuntokun as a role model and a patriot, recently honored by the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation for his contributions to academia and public service.
Other Dignitaries Share Reflections on Osuntokun’s Impact
At the book launch, prominent figures praised Osuntokun’s influence. Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who reviewed the book, traced the professor’s rich family history and academic achievements, underscoring Osuntokun’s legacy as a leading intellectual and mentor.
The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, voiced his admiration for Osuntokun’s principles. Obi criticized Nigeria’s tendency to honor unworthy role models, warning that it hinders the nation’s progress.
Pastor Tunde Bakare, Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, performed the book unveiling, expressing gratitude to Osuntokun for his mentorship during his university years.
Notable Attendees and Their Support
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, represented by Senior Special Adviser Wahab Alawiye; Lagos State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso; TV anchor and former presidential spokesperson Reuben Abati; and Lagos Labour Party governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour.
The launch of the biography, The Noble Academic and Patriot: A Biography of Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun, provided an opportunity for reflection on Nigeria’s historical challenges and the pressing need for constitutional reform to foster a more inclusive and stable federation.
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