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Communique

Following collaborative work sessions, the Central Constitutional Review Working Group drafted the following Communique, which has been presented at the NPRC by the Diaspora Delegate from the Americas.

COMMUNIQUE OF THE PRE-NATIONAL POLITICAL REFORM CONFERENCE
(NPRC) MEETING OF NIGERIANS IN THE AMERICAS DIASPORA,
FEBRUARY 19, 2005

Sequel to the pre-conference meeting of representatives of Nigerians in the Diaspora organized by NIDO Americas in collaboration with the Nigerian Embassy, Washington DC, the Central Working Committee on the NPRC expressed full support for the National Dialogue, and agreed on the following recommendations to guide the representative of the Nigerians in the American Diaspora during the deliberations:

1. In the area of Government:

a) The creation of viable subdivisions comprising a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 geo-political regions.

b) To establish and implement higher standards for recruitment, training, and development of the national, regional, and local police forces.

c) To establish the independence of the central bank and agreed tenure for its governor.

d) Abrogate the land use, natural resources, and allied decrees.

e) Any change of government other than in accordance with the provisions of the constitution will be unlawful, unacceptable, and punishable for all time.

f) Ensure the secularity of the Nigerian State.

2. In the area of Political Reforms:

a) To introduce the use of national ID card for electoral purposes.

b) To introduce absentee ballots in the voting system that includes the Diaspora community.

c) To reform the electoral system to conform with international standards:

(i)
Use of law enforcement to ensure the integrity of all votes.
(ii)
To ensure a truly independent, decentralized national electoral commission with full representation of component political parties.

3. On the issue of Society and Citizenry

a) The role of traditional institutions to be left to the federating units consistent with their local tradition and culture.

b) Ensure equal treatment for all Nigerians irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or gender.

Joseph U. Igietseme, Ph.D.,
Conference Secretary
 
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