The Centre for Youth Participation, Dialogue and Advocacy Africa (CYPA) Africa is leading the charge for increased citizen engagement in Nigeria’s constitutional review process.
Highlighting the lack of inclusive participation in the past, the organization, under the leadership of its executive director, Amb. Chris Iyama, emphasized the need to amplify citizens’ voices to shape the nation’s future.
At a recent townhall meeting and workshop in Plateau State, stakeholders from various backgrounds, including civil society organizations, faith-based groups, and youth councils, gathered to contribute to the country’s constitutional reform.
Iyama stressed the importance of citizen participation in shaping the country’s constitutional landscape, emphasizing inclusivity and the need to prioritize the opinions of the people.
“It is essential to gather citizens’ opinions and make their voices heard on important matters.We cannot allow a few individuals to dictate policies that govern the masses. Everyone must be part of the conversation,” he emphasized
Iyama highlighted the lack of a “people’s constitution” since Nigeria’s transition to democracy and called for greater representation of all segments of society in the constitutional review process.
He expressed optimism about the forthcoming memorandum submission to the National Assembly, citing the diverse participation of stakeholders as a sign of the collective desire for positive change.
During the event, Barr. I.K Anyalewechi of Equity International Initiative emphasized the importance of citizen engagement in Nigeria’s constitutional reform, urging proactive involvement instead of passive complaints. He stated that it is the duty of citizens to contribute to a constitution that reflects the aspirations of all Nigerians.
In his remarks, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, President of IJAW council worldwide, echoed the importance of unity and empathy, urging Nigerians to transcend ethnic and religious divides in addressing national issues.
“It is important that Nigerians must exhibit this true character of Nigerianness,If our people are suffering in the southeast, we should be able to stand together and speak against it and until we see the suffering of every Nigerian and every part of this country as our own, we’ll continue to grapple with these challenges”. He said.
On her part, Hajiya Fatima Sulieman, Executive Director of ICIN, underscored the importance of inclusivity and fairness in the review process, calling for a neutral and objective approach that considers the interests of all Nigerians.
In his keynote address on the importance of citizens engagement in constitutional review, Dr. Gad Shamaki, Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation,highlighted the importance of citizen engagement in addressing neglected issues and ensuring justice and equality for future generations.
“It is imperative that we prioritize the needs of marginalized groups and ensure their voices are heard in shaping a fair and equitable society,” he affirmed.
Panelists and delegates exchanged ideas on various aspects of constitutional reform, discussing citizenship, legal benefits, the role of civil society, and the importance of responsive leadership and accountability.
