Ann-Kio Briggs, a prominent environmentalist and human rights activist, has called for a new constitution in Nigeria to address longstanding issues of resource distribution and regional development, according to a recent report by The Sun.
Briggs highlighted stark disparities between different regions of Nigeria, using Kano State as an example. “Kano State has 44 local government areas and Bayelsa has eight, but you will use the oil and gas money from the region to finance development in Kano State, but the solid minerals from the North is for them and not for Nigeria,” she stated, pointing out the inequitable distribution of resource revenues.
The activist emphasized the need for a more balanced approach to national resource management. “But our own oil and gas is for the entire country. There should be justice, fairness and equity,” Briggs argued, suggesting that these principles should be fundamental to Nigeria’s governance structure.
Briggs expressed support for the initiative by The Patriots, a non-partisan group, to create a new democratic constitution. She asserted, “These are some of the issues a new Constitution will address.”
Criticizing the current constitutional framework, Briggs stated, “The present constitution we operate, no doubt, impedes the country’s deserved pace of development and facilitates corruption and degradation of our societal values.” She advocated for a truly federal constitution as a solution to Nigeria’s challenges, saying, “I think that a truly federal constitution is, therefore, a must if we are to effectively deal with the challenges currently confronting our Nigeria.”
Briggs concluded by expressing hope in The Patriots’ initiative, stating, “The problem with Nigeria is the reason The Patriots is initiating steps towards giving the country a new democratic people’s constitution.” This statement underscores her belief that constitutional reform could be a pathway to addressing Nigeria’s complex socio-economic issues.
As Nigeria grapples with questions of resource management, regional development, and national unity, Briggs’ call for a new constitution adds to the ongoing debate about the country’s political and economic future.