Former Minister of Education and founder of Human Capital Africa, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has called on the Nigerian media to take a frontline role in advocating for a people-driven constitution that reflects the collective will of the nation.
Delivering a powerful keynote address at the seventh Penpushing Media anniversary and annual lecture held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr. Ezekwesili described Nigeria’s current constitution as “fundamentally flawed”, arguing that it can no longer address the country’s deep-rooted challenges.
“The Constitution Must Come from the People”
Speaking on the topic, “Reworking Nigeria’s Federalism: Perspectives on Restructuring and Fiscal Federalism,” the respected public policy expert stated:
“The media should take the front seat and be at the vanguard of the demand for a new constitution. We must convene a constitutional conference to allow honest national conversations that will lead to a document truly reflective of the people’s will.”
She emphasized that only a new constitution birthed through a national constitutional conference and approved via a referendum can secure Nigeria’s progress, unity, and justice.
Criticism of Ongoing Constitutional Amendments
Dr. Ezekwesili did not mince words in her criticism of the current constitutional amendment efforts by the National Assembly, describing the process as a “charade” and a waste of public resources:
“The current amendment process cannot fix anything. It’s like patching a building with a faulty foundation. The right solution is to bring it down and rebuild.”
She further lambasted what she described as a “criminal enterprise gang” that has hijacked politics in Nigeria, excluding citizens from governance and prioritizing personal gain over national interest.
Fiscal Federalism Key to National Stability
Drawing inspiration from Kenya’s post-conflict constitutional reforms, Ezekwesili stressed that true federalism anchored on fiscal autonomy could empower Nigeria’s regions, boost productivity, and address growing calls for secession and restructuring.
“We must devolve power and resources back to the regions. Without true federalism, we’ll continue to experience insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and marginalisation.”
She argued that Africa’s prosperity hinges on reforming political leadership and building governance structures that prioritize citizen welfare.
Penpushing Media: Driving National Discourse
Earlier in the event, Penpushing Media founder, Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, welcomed guests and reiterated the platform’s commitment to shaping national discourse and promoting ethical journalism.
He noted that Penpushing Media remains a trailblazer in Nigeria’s media landscape as the first online news platform based in Abeokuta — the birthplace of Nigerian journalism in 1859.
“We continue to grow through impactful reporting and training, with initiatives aimed at uplifting humanity and supporting future media professionals,” Kayode-Adedeji said.
The platform annually awards the best graduating students in mass communication across tertiary institutions and continues to offer mentorship to aspiring journalists.
Key Guests, Panelists, and Organizers
Prominent figures at the event included:
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Former presidential spokesman Femi Adesina
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Justice (Rtd.) Deinde Soremi
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Prof. Abigail Ndisika (UNILAG)
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Former NBC Director Sir Eddy Aina
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Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs Adijat Adeleye
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Retired CP Fatai Owoseni
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Planning committee chairperson Dr. Abiola Afolabi
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Editorial board chair Funke Fadugba
The Penpushing Media editorial board also includes:
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Dimeji Adedeji
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Sir Eddy Aina
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Barr. Benjamin Ogunmodede
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Yemisi Fadairo
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Femi Shodunke
