Peter Lassa, a professor of Mathematics has called for a drastic overhaul of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, citing its inherent flaws and inability to meet the aspirations of Nigerians.
At a press conference on Monday in Jos the Plateau state capital, the 85-year-old professor emeritus highlighted the constitution’s shortcomings, which he believes have contributed to the country’s socio-economic woes.
According to Lassa, the 1999 Constitution was imposed on Nigerians by the military, without adequate representation or input from the people. This, he argued, has resulted in a document that does not reflect the true wishes and aspirations of Nigerians.
“This constitution has constantly aided corruption because the system has been rigged to produce the worst of the worst. A system where illegality and criminality are rewarded and hard work and uprightness are unnoticed and unrewarded. We are in a retrogressive state.
“We need a new constitution that emanates from the people who will obey it. We need a referendum where everyone’s voice will be heard, we are all Nigerians, and no one should be more Nigerian than another”.
One of the fundamental flaws identified by the professor is the constitution’s failure to provide clear guidelines for the relationship between the federal, state, and local governments. This ambiguity, he noted, has led to conflicts and power struggles between the different tiers of government.
The professor also expressed concern over the constitution’s provisions regarding the independence of the judiciary. While the constitution guarantees the independence of the judiciary, Lassa argued that this independence is often compromised by external influences and interference.
Furthermore, he criticized the constitution’s provisions regarding the remuneration of legislators, which he believes have created a situation where lawmakers prioritize their interests over the welfare of their constituents.
The professor also highlighted the need for unambiguous language in the Constitution, citing instances where ambiguous wording has led to confusion and misinterpretation.
In addition, Lassa advocated for the establishment of regional development commissions, which he believed would facilitate more effective development and governance at the regional level.
The professor’s call for a new constitution is not merely a rhetorical exercise; he believes that a constitution that truly reflects the aspirations and values of Nigerians is essential for the country’s progress and development.
He called for the urgent need for a comprehensive review and overhaul of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
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