…Says existing constitutional framework no longer addresses challenges facing Nigeria
The Niger Delta Congress (NDC), a socio-political organisation representing all the ethnic nationalities of the Niger Delta region, has demanded for the immediate convening of a constitutional conference.
NDC stated that the existing constitutional framework no longer adequately addresses the challenges facing the country. Stressing that all political malfeasance is largely due, if not all together as a result of this illegitimate constitution.
ALSO READ: Full text of the 63rd Independence Day address by President Bola Tinubu
The group, which represents the socio-political, economic, and environmental interests of the people of the Niger Delta region, or the South-South geopolitical region of Nigeria made this known in a statement signed by Mudiaga Ogboru, National Spokesperson, NDC
He explained that Nigerian people deserve a government that is responsive, accountable, transparent and is willing to to adhere to this social contract. Adding that a constitutional conference will provide a platform for constructive dialogue and consensus-building necessary to address the multifaceted challenges facing our nation.
The statement reads in part; “On behalf of the people of Niger Delta and other concerned participant of the Nigerian project, this communique is written with a sense of urgency and responsibility. The current sociopolitical trajectory of the country has accentuated the already serious concerns regarding the future of the country, and we believe that swift and decisive action is imperative to stem the political and economic bludgeoning threatening to destroy the social fabric of Nigeria beyond repair.
“The issues at hand are complex and multifaceted, encompassing matters such as governance, decentralization of power and equitable representation, security and social justice, resource management and economic stability, judicial independence and effective separation of powers. It is evident that our existing constitutional framework no longer adequately addresses the challenges facing the country, and all political malfeasance is largely due, if not all together as a result of this illegitimate constitution.
“The Nigerian people deserve a government that is responsive, accountable, transparent and is willing to to adhere to this social contract.
“In light of these, we hereby demand the immediate convening of a constitutional conference. The proposed Constitutional Conference would serve as a platform for representatives from all the ethnicities, religions, socio-economic backgrounds, political leaders, legal experts, civil society representatives, our traditional leaders, technocrats, women, youths and citizens from all walks of life. Its primary purpose should be to critically examine our current constitution, identify its shortcomings, and propose necessary amendments as a means to advance the deteriorating social cohesion and consolidate political reforms which would capture the aspirations, values and inalienable rights of Nigerians.
“We firmly believe that a constitutional conference will provide a platform for constructive dialogue and consensus-building necessary to address the multifaceted challenges facing our nation. We implore you, our esteemed leaders, to heed this call for action and initiate the process of convening such a conference without delay,” the statement added.
Support Quality Journalism in the Niger Delta Region
Join us in our mission to bring development journalism, cultural preservation, and environmental awareness to the forefront. Your contribution makes a difference in the lives of the people of the Niger Delta. Donate today and be a part of the change!
