By Milcah Tanimu

The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) is urging for a constitutional overhaul and decentralization of power in Nigeria in response to the ongoing terrorism menace. Led by former Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Samuel Gani, the NCEF advocates for a new constitution that redistributes power from the central government to the federating units, empowering them to manage their security affairs independently.

Concerned about the deliberate displacement of indigenous ethnic groups by terrorists, the NCEF emphasizes the urgent need for indigenous ethnic nationalities to renegotiate Nigeria’s constitutional framework. In a recent meeting, they underscored the imperative of indigenous ethnic groups taking control of their destinies.

In a statement following their meeting, the NCEF emphasized the necessity of adopting a new constitution rather than amending the existing one. They stressed that such a constitution should grant autonomy to the federating units, enabling them to address security challenges effectively.

Furthermore, the NCEF clarified that the responsibility for drafting the new constitution lies with the ethnic nationalities, not the National Assembly. They pledged to collaborate with these groups to initiate the constitutional reform process in 2024.

Acknowledging the Patriots Group’s propositions in March 2024 advocating for a new constitution, the NCEF committed to reviewing these proposals and incorporating them into their reform agenda.

Comprising esteemed Christian leaders from across Nigeria, including Dr. Saleh Hussaini, Elder Shyngle Wigwe, and Mrs. Osaretin Demuren, the NCEF is steadfast in its pursuit of constitutional reforms aimed at fostering peace, stability, and equitable governance in Nigeria.