On the occasion of Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, renowned political economist Professor Pat Utomi has issued a strong appeal to President Bola Tinubu to undertake a complete restructuring of Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at the June 12: Annual Democracy Day National Dialogue held in Ikeja on Thursday, Utomi emphasized that the future stability and growth of Nigeria’s democracy depend heavily on this fundamental change.
The event, organized by the June 12 Pro-Democracy Movement of Nigeria, carried the theme: “Democracy Without A Democratic Constitution: Which Way for Nigeria?” Utomi highlighted that the current democratic framework falls short of the ideals for which late Chief MKO Abiola sacrificed his life. He stated, “The agitation for total restructuring will stabilize and advance democracy in the country.”
Utomi further pointed out that Nigeria’s existing political and economic structures, coupled with the “unworkable 1999 constitution,” pose significant obstacles to the country’s democratic progress. He urged all Nigerians to embrace restructuring as a critical mechanism for deepening democracy and strengthening national unity.
In his address, Utomi also advised President Tinubu to heed the calls from ethnic groups such as Afenifere and Ohaneze, whose voices represent a broad spectrum of the Nigerian populace. “The President would win the confidence of the electorate if he listened to these agitations,” he remarked.
He cautioned citizens to vigilantly protect democracy from anti-democratic forces and their agents, underscoring the importance of safeguarding democratic gains. Utomi concluded by commending the sacrifices made by Nigerians over the years to entrench democratic governance.
Also contributing to the dialogue, former Finance Minister Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s potential resurgence. He revealed that the quest for a better Nigeria inspired him and other thought leaders to advocate for a new, workable constitution.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Wahab Shittu, stressed the urgent need for a democratic culture anchored by a people-driven constitution. He criticized the 1999 constitution for lacking a referendum process involving Nigerians. “The country needs a constitution that is driven and led by the Nigerian people, not one imposed on them,” Shittu asserted.
Earlier in the event, the June 12 Pro-Democracy Movement urged President Tinubu to initiate a national dialogue and consultation process aimed at producing a truly democratic people’s constitution. The movement’s convener, Mr. Wale Okunniyi, expressed hope that Tinubu could fulfill the aspirations of June 12 activists by implementing this process during his administration.