…the 1963 Constitution serves as a blueprint for national unity and enduring progress — Afenifere Leader
The iNews Times reports that the National Leader of Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, has urged Nigeria’s leadership and citizens to revisit the foundational principles of federalism as contained in the 1963 Constitution.
According to Fasoranti, the 1963 Constitution serves as a blueprint for national unity and enduring progress.
Fasoranti in a statement commemorating June 12, advocated for a return to the 1963 Republican Constitution, which he believes provides the necessary framework for true federalism.
He argued that the current system is over-centralized and inadequate for Nigeria’s complex needs, and that true federalism would encourage balanced development and reduce regional tensions.
“Fasoranti emphasized that federalism enables the constituent parts of the country to exercise some level of autonomy or self-determination, as obtained in the First Republic,” he said.
“To ensure an enduring framework for unity and progress in the country, this approach is essential.”
While hailing the milestone of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, Fasoranti emphasized the need for structural reforms to deepen democratic practice in Nigeria. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by pro-democracy groups that fought for the restoration of civil governance, noting that the sustained democratic rule is a product of their commitment and efforts.
Fasoranti expressed hope in the continued vibrancy of progressive movements, stating that he is confident that the progressive spirit will continue to sustain and nurture democratic ideals in Nigeria.
He also commended the role of civil society groups, including Afenifere, which coalesced into the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) to ensure the restoration of democracy and the birth of the Fourth Republic.
Addressing the persistent insecurity plaguing the nation, Fasoranti noted that despite ongoing efforts, the country remains under siege from violent non-state actors.
He proposed the creation of State Police and Community Policing as realistic and urgently needed solutions to combat insecurity.
“We, in Afenifere, share the view of many other patriotic Nigerians that establishing State Police and checking internal collaborators appears to be the panacea for this scourge that tends to make living or traveling in certain parts of the country a nightmare,” Fasoranti said.
He called on the federal and state governments to establish the State Police and the Community Policing system.
In conclusion, Fasoranti reminded Nigerians of the deeper meaning of June 12 and the need to rise above divisions in pursuit of a greater national purpose.
His call for a return to the 1963 Constitution and the establishment of State Police and Community Policing aims to address the country’s complex challenges and promote national unity and progress, iNews Times reports.
