Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has declared that Nigeria’s major challenge is not its constitution, but the individuals entrusted with its implementation.
Obasanjo made this assertion on Wednesday during the opening of a three-day national summit on the future of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, held in Abuja. In a speech delivered on his behalf by Olawale Okunniyi, secretary-general of Eminent Patriots, the former president said while the constitution is not flawless, it remains capable of supporting good governance and improving citizens’ welfare, if implemented in good faith.
“The best constitution can be perverted and distorted by the operators, and we have experienced that all over Africa; Nigeria is not exempted,” Obasanjo said.
He emphasised that the focus of democratic reform should shift towards the character and conduct of those who operate the constitutional system. According to him, no amount of constitutional amendment will yield meaningful results if the behaviour of Nigeria’s leadership remains driven by selfish interests.
“No matter what you do to the Nigerian constitution, if the operators of the constitution, for the past one decade and a half, remain unchanged and continue in the same manner, the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians will continue to be sacrificed on the altar of selfishness,” he stated.
Obasanjo stressed that the Nigerian constitution, like any other, must reflect the country’s history, aspirations, and diverse constituents. But even the most ideal legal framework, he warned, can be undermined by leaders who lack integrity.
He therefore called for a renewed national focus on accountability, honesty, and adherence to the rule of law among political actors.
“As we reflect on the future of constitutional democracy in Nigeria, let us remember that the document itself is only as good as the people who bring it to life,” he added.
The summit, which drew participants from across political, legal, and civil society sectors, aims to examine Nigeria’s democratic trajectory and explore ways to strengthen constitutional governance.
Chioma Kalu
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