2023 Presidency: Falana, 29 Others Form Political Movement, National Consultative Front

A group of prominent Nigerians, including former Speaker of the House of Representatives Ghali Na’Abba, lawyers Olisa Agbakoba and Femi Falana, former Central Bank of Nigeria Deputy Governor Obadiah Mailafia and former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili, has announced the formation of a political movement known as the National Consultative Front.

The group said the initiative was created in response to what it described as the failure of successive political leaders to adequately address Nigeria’s political, economic and social challenges.

In a statement, the movement said it intended to provide what it called a credible alternative political leadership and mobilise Nigerians across the country for reforms.

According to the group, one of its major objectives is to push for constitutional reforms that are driven by citizens and capable of producing what it described as a new people-oriented constitution.

The movement also said it would campaign for greater attention to the economic welfare of Nigerians and advocate for the provisions contained in Chapter Two of the 1999 Constitution, dealing with the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, to become legally enforceable.

It further called for reforms to Nigeria’s electoral laws, arguing that weaknesses in the existing system had created opportunities for political actors to undermine the wishes of voters.

The National Consultative Front said the internal crises affecting the country’s major political parties reinforced its belief that Nigerians needed an alternative political platform.

It criticised the performance of the political leadership during the first 21 years of the Fourth Republic, describing many of those who had occupied positions of authority as having failed to sufficiently improve the welfare of citizens.

The group also expressed concern about insecurity and violence in different parts of the country.

It called on the Federal Government, military and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property and address continuing attacks on communities.

The organisers said the movement would embark on nationwide mobilisation aimed at building support for political, constitutional and electoral reforms ahead of future elections, including the 2023 general election.