A former senator representing Kebbi State has described the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as one of the best constitutions in the world, insisting that the country’s challenges stem more from poor implementation than from flaws in the document itself.
Speaking during a public engagement, the ex-lawmaker argued that Nigeria’s constitution adequately captures democratic principles, federal character, separation of powers, and the protection of fundamental human rights. According to him, many of the provisions Nigerians frequently criticize are not inherently defective but are often misunderstood or deliberately ignored by those entrusted with governance.
He maintained that nations facing similar governance issues have progressed not by constantly rewriting their constitutions, but by strengthening institutions and enforcing the rule of law. The former senator noted that the Nigerian constitution provides sufficient legal backing for accountability, good governance, and national unity — if applied faithfully.
Reacting to ongoing calls for constitutional overhaul, he urged political leaders and citizens alike to focus more on strict adherence to constitutional provisions, rather than attributing national setbacks solely to the legal framework. He stressed that selective compliance and weak enforcement have done more damage than the document itself.
The comments have sparked renewed debate among legal experts and civil society groups, with opinions divided between those who support constitutional reform and others who believe Nigeria’s main problem lies in leadership culture and institutional discipline.
As the conversation around restructuring and constitutional amendments continues, the former lawmaker’s remarks add a contrasting voice — one that challenges Nigerians to look beyond the document and confront the deeper issues affecting governance and national development.
