Former Nigerian Bar Association President, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has urged the National Assembly to halt further amendments to the 1999 Constitution, describing it as outdated and incapable of addressing Nigeria’s realities.
Delivering the 13th Convocation Lecture of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, on Monday, October 20, titled “Nigeria Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Imperative of a Sober and Definitive Recalibration,” Olanipekun called for the drafting of a new, homegrown constitution that reflects the will of the people.
He said, “The National Assembly should, for the time being, stay action on the ongoing amendment or any further amendment to the 1999 Constitution.
“This constitution needs a new rebranding, a complete overhaul, a substitution altogether. It has to be a negotiated document that will pave the way for a new social order.”
Describing the current constitution as a “military albatross,” Olanipekun argued that it was imposed on Nigerians and has lost legitimacy.
He proposed a transitional phase up to 2031 to harmonise past constitutional reviews and prepare for a new document that would take effect by May 29, 2031.
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The Senior Advocate also called for a national referendum to allow Nigerians to decide key governance issues.
He said states, not the Federal Government, should lead the restructuring process to restore balance in the federation.
Olanipekun expressed concern over the rise in state creation demands, warning that more states would only weaken the federation.
He also criticised the absence of ideology in Nigerian politics, cautioning against frequent defections by politicians.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for his consistency in staying with one political platform and praised his decision to reinstate Nigeria’s old national anthem.
Afe Babalola (SAN), founder of the university, hailed Olanipekun for delivering what he described as a “well-researched and deeply reflective lecture.”