Legal luminary and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has called on the National Assembly to suspend ongoing constitution amendment efforts and instead organize a national referendum to address the country’s structural issues.
Speaking during a lecture in Lagos, Olanipekun said the 1999 Constitution has “outlived its legitimacy” and can no longer serve as a genuine foundation for unity and progress.
He maintained that “tinkering” with the existing document through piecemeal amendments will not solve Nigeria’s governance challenges.
“What Nigeria needs is not another round of cosmetic amendments but a truly people-driven constitution that reflects the will and aspirations of all Nigerians,” he said.
Olanipekun urged lawmakers to consult widely and allow citizens to determine through a referendum the kind of governance structure they want.
He emphasized that only an inclusive national dialogue can restore citizens’ faith in the democratic process and strengthen national cohesion.
