Rev. James G. Pam, Convener of Middle-Belt Groups, today addressed the press, outlining the demands of ethnic nationalities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt Region for renewed federalism and hope through the reinstatement of the 1963 Constitution.
During his address, Rev. Pam emphasized the vibrant discussions on Nigeria’s economy, governance, restructuring, and security. He highlighted the Middle Belt’s unified position on returning to republican democratic federalism as articulated by Da Jonathan Akuns, an economist and retired central banker.
On June 30, 2024, leaders of various Middle Belt groups convened and agreed to adopt Akuns’ proposal. Subsequently, a Draft Bill was sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the 10th National Assembly, advocating for the reversion to the 1963 Constitution with necessary updates to reflect contemporary realities.
Rev. Pam presented several compelling reasons for this move, including the 1963 Constitution’s legitimacy as the only constitution negotiated and passed by a democratically elected parliament, its recognition of two tiers of government, and its framework for rapid regional economic progress. He criticized subsequent military decrees and amendments that failed to meet Nigerians’ demands for full-scale restructuring.
The proposed bill includes repealing military decrees, updating the constitution to include 36 regions, transitioning from a parliamentary to a presidential system, and setting a transition period ending on October 1, 2027.
Rev. Pam underscored the Middle Belt’s historical and consistent demand for semi-autonomous regions, highlighting the region’s exclusion from top political offices and the urgent need for local governance to address unprovoked armed attacks.
He concluded by defining the Middle Belt’s territories, which span several states and regions in Nigeria.
Rev. Pam’s press statement underscores a critical juncture for Nigeria’s governance, reflecting a deep-seated desire for a return to a constitution that genuinely represents the people’s will.