Rethinking Nigeria's Constitutional Framework: A Call for Restructuring Beyond Security.

Rethinking Nigeria's Constitutional Framework: A Call for Restructuring Beyond Security.

ByAdl.

In addressing the pressing challenges facing Nigeria today, the analogy of sending a blind man into a dark room to find a nonexistent black shirt vividly fits the inefficiency of our current constitutional framework. To effectively combat pervasive insecurity, a fundamental restructuring is not just desirable but imperative.

Former NBA President, Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN, boldly declares the current constitution as "fake," emphasizing the need for a humane and adaptable legal foundation. However, the challenge lies not only in legal realms but extends to a broader spectrum, necessitating a comprehensive restructuring approach that goes beyond just security concerns.

The urgency for a decentralized security approach becomes evident in the face of our current escalating security challenges. Empowering individual states with autonomy to tailor security measures according to their unique challenges not only promotes proactive solutions to local issues but also instills a sense of cohesion among regional leaders.

Chief Olanipekun's assertion sheds light on a pervasive issue – the current constitution's inadequacy. The plea for constitutional overhaul is not a mere call for amendments but a demand for a system that resonates with the nation's diversity and addresses its dynamic challenges.

As we delve deeper into restructuring, it becomes apparent that security is just one facet of the multifaceted issue. Economic policies, resource allocation, and governance structures should all be subject to reconsideration. A decentralized model would provide states the flexibility to respond swiftly to citizens' needs, fostering local development and instilling a sense of ownership among the populace.

The call for constitutional reevaluation extends beyond placing blame on Governors for security failures and lapses. It is a recognition of the need for a system that adapts to the evolving challenges of a diverse and dynamic nation. In the absence of such restructuring, the risk of perpetuating a cycle of blame without effective solutions remains.

The notion that lawyers and judges apply the law as it is, not as it ought to be, underscores the practical limitations within the existing constitutional framework. Chief Olanipekun's emphasis on the "fake" nature of the Constitution challenges us to question not just the legality but the functionality of our governing principles.

To break free from the current cycle of blame and ineffectiveness, embracing a flexible and decentralized approach becomes paramount. This approach could unearth innovative solutions and mobilize collective efforts toward a more secure and prosperous future. Restructuring offers an opportunity to redefine our nation's trajectory, moving away from the constraints of an outdated constitution towards a more adaptive and responsive governance model.

In conclusion, the call for restructuring is not merely a critique of the existing constitutional framework; it is a rallying cry for a more resilient, responsive, and adaptable system. Whether addressing security challenges, economic policies, or governance structures, a decentralized model provides the necessary flexibility to navigate the diverse landscape of Nigeria. Embracing this restructuring imperative is not just a legal necessity but a strategic move towards a more secure, accountable, and prosperous future for the nation. 

I am Adl.