The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) has raised concerns about the current state of Nigeria and the urgent need for action to prevent a potential implosion. In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, the NCEF emphasized the importance of addressing corruption in the civil service and National Assembly as a crucial step towards combating corruption in the country.
The NCEF also urged the government to ensure that the appointment of officials for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is free from political interference. They proposed subjecting the draft Constitution of the 2014 National Conference to a national referendum, stating that its approval by the people would make it a valid constitution.
The NCEF highlighted that all regions of Nigeria were represented at the National Conference and unanimously approved the draft constitution. They believe that this approach would eliminate objections from any part of the country.
The letter, signed by the National Chairman of the Forum, Dr. Samuel Danjuma Gani, expressed concern about four critical areas that require immediate attention. These areas include the need for a new constitution, a credible fight against corruption, the independence of the judiciary, and averting a planned national protest scheduled for August 2024.
The NCEF acknowledged that corruption has deeply rooted itself in Nigeria, with the political class blurring the lines between public funds and personal wealth. They criticized the current administration, stating that the fight against corruption has not yielded significant results and that the EFCC’s actions have often appeared as media trials rather than effective prosecution.
The Forum also highlighted the pervasive corruption within the civil service and among public officials. They stressed that tackling corruption at this level is essential for any meaningful progress in the fight against corruption. The NCEF called for an independent EFCC that is free from political influence and for the appointment of EFCC officials to be devoid of political interference.
To prevent a nationwide protest, the NCEF advised Tinubu to announce the introduction of a new constitution and initiate preparations for a national referendum to adopt the 2014 National Conference’s draft constitution. They believe that this step would address concerns and prevent any potential violence or destruction.
The NCEF cautioned against replicating protests seen in other countries, citing the uniqueness of Nigeria’s situation and the potential for multiple aggrieved groups to exploit the protest. They warned that the country could face implosion or the protesters could be met with excessive force, referencing the recent memory of the #ENDSARS protests.
As elders, the NCEF emphasized their opposition to actions that could lead to loss of life and destruction. They urged the government to change its approach to governance, restore hope and confidence in the people, and prioritize the development of a new constitution.
The NCEF proposed adopting the draft Constitution of the 2014 National Conference as a starting point, given its broad representation and agreement among various ethnic nationalities and sectors of the economy. They criticized the flaws of the current constitution, particularly the claim of “We the People” when the people did not produce it.
Furthermore, the NCEF expressed concern about the encroachment of partisan politics in the judiciary, which they believe has compromised its integrity and credibility. They highlighted the increase in bribery among judges and magistrates, calling for politicians to refrain from interfering with the judiciary and for the independence of the judiciary to be guaranteed.
The NCEF stressed that any country unable to ensure justice in its courts is on the verge of anarchy. They believe that restoring hope and confidence in the people is the government’s primary responsibility.
