The Movement for National Reformation (MNR) has called on President Bola Tinubu to restore the 1963 constitution and discard the current 1999 constitution to promote national unity. During a press conference in Abuja, MNR National Vice Chairman, Dr. Samuel Adai Onimisi, and National Secretary, Philip Idaewor, emphasized that the 1963 constitution represents the legitimate federal structure bequeathed by Nigeria’s Founding Fathers.
Dr. Onimisi stated, “We appeal to President Tinubu to seriously consider this imperative. Restoring the 1963 Constitution and amending it to reflect contemporary realities will provide a legal and stable social framework to address the structural issues plaguing the nation.”
He argued that the widespread calls for restructuring Nigeria are rooted in the demand to revive true federalism. “The current 1999 Constitution, derived from Military Decree 24 of 1999, is a unitary document that lacks the consensus of ‘We the Peoples’ of Nigeria,” Onimisi added.
Philip Idaewor also addressed the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, condemning the loss of lives and property during the 10-day nationwide demonstrations. He expressed solidarity with the Federal Government, urging it to swiftly alleviate the suffering of citizens.
“The MNR condemns in strong terms the tragic outcomes of the protests and the undemocratic calls for government overthrow. We stand with the government in its responsibility to prioritize the security and welfare of the people,” Idaewor said.
He extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. Idaewor lamented that a civic protest was hijacked by hostile forces, causing unnecessary sorrow and distracting from the core issues at hand.
The MNR reiterated the importance of the 1999 Constitution’s emphasis on the government’s duty to ensure the security and welfare of its citizens, calling for immediate government action to address the nation’s challenges.
