Tanko Yakasai On Nigeria’s Governance: ‘Constitution Isn’t The Problem, It’s Those Who Operate It’

Founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Tanko Yakasai, has asserted that Nigeria’s constitution is not necessarily the problem, but those operating it.
Ireporteronline reports that Yakasai made the assertion while reacting to the call by a group of elder statesmen, ‘The Patriots’, who recently visited President Bola Tinubu and canvassed for a new constitution.

In a statement on Wednesday, Yakasai expressed reservations about both the process and the content of the submission made during this visit.

The elder statesman said the crux of Nigeria’s challenges lies in the attitude and character of those who operate the constitution.

Yakasai urged President Tinubu to tread carefully and consult widely on the demands of the Patriots.

The statement, “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.”