Return to 1963 Constitution: Middle Belt groups hosts Akuns.

Return to 1963 Constitution: Middle Belt groups hosts Akuns.

By Bolaji O. Akinyemi.

Recent calls by citizens for a constitution that truly represents the people and carries the collective signature of, “We the People” got a huge support through the mobilisation efforts of groups from the Middle Belt.

In a significant development, various ethnic nationalities from the Middle-Belt region of Nigeria have come together to demand autonomy for federating units by a return to the 1963 Constitution. The Middle-Belt Voice, a coalition of groups, held a press conference on July 24, 2024, to present their united front and proposal for constitutional reform.

Da Jonathan Sunday Akuns, the Galadima Daffo, of the RON ethnic nationality, in Plateau State Middle Belt Nigeria a leading voice that roused the call to return to the 1963 constitution was at the table with the Convener, Rev James Pam. Da J.S Akuns is also the Chairman, National Committee for Restructuring of the Indigenous Groups for Restructuring, IGR.

Rev. James G. Pam, convener of the Middle-Belt groups, highlighted the region’s long-standing struggle for self-governance, dating back to the pre-independence era. He emphasized that the current constitution has failed to address the region’s demands for restructuring, despite multiple amendments.

The proposal presented by Pam seeks to:

1. Repeal four (4) military decrees; Numbers 1 and 34 of 1966, 104 of 1979 and 24 of 1999.
2. Recognize the 1963 Constitution as the foundation of a democratic FRN from 1st October 1963.
3. Update the 1963 Constitution to incorporate contemporary realities, such as the 36 states.
4. Establish a 3-year transition period for states to write their constitutions and map out governance strategies.

The Middle-Belt groups argue that the 1963 Constitution, which recognized only two tiers of government and empowered regions to write their constitutions and exploit natural resources, offers a viable solution to Nigeria’s governance challenges.

Pam also addressed the question of the Middle-Belt region’s definition, clarifying its territories and emphasizing its denial of top political offices. He lamented that the North-Central Zone has been denied any of the six top political offices in the land.

The proposal has sparked hope for a better future among the Middle-Belt people, who are demanding renewed federalism and autonomy of the federating units. The move is seen as a significant step towards addressing the region’s long-standing grievances and promoting national cohesion.

As the debate on constitutional reform continues, the Middle-Belt groups’ proposal is expected to generate significant attention and discussion among stakeholders.

The outcome of this development remains to be seen, but one thing is clear – the Middle-Belt region is united in its demand for autonomy and a better future.