The house of representatives committee on the review of the
constitution has received a proposal to rename Nigeria to the “United Africans
Republic (UAR)”.
The national assembly is currently in the process of
altering the constitution and making amendments to it.
The proposal for the change of the country’s name was
submitted to the committee by Adeleye Jokotoye, a tax consultant in Lagos
state, on Wednesday.
In his submission, Jokotoye said the name —
Nigeria — was not coined by a citizen but given to the country by Flora Shaw,
wife of Lord Lugard, a colonialist.
He argued that for the country to be united, its name needs
to be changed, adding that it will foster peace among citizens.
“First and foremost, I want to recommend a name change from
Nigeria to the United Africans Republic (UAR),” the proposal reads.
“The significance of name change cannot be overemphasised.
Even God our father, in the Holy books, changed names of prophets e.g. Saul to
Paul, Jacob to Israel, etc. The reason for name change is to physically and
psychologically reflect a new beginning.
“Thus, at this crossroads in our history, it is mandatory
that we change our name to reflect a new beginning which will be ushered in with
a new constitution. The word ‘Africa’ is a Greek word meaning ‘Without Cold’.
Africa was originally called ‘Alkebulan’, meaning ‘Mother of Mankind’ (Garden
of Eden).
“Alkebulan is the oldest and the only word of indigenous
origin used by Moors, Nubians and Ethiopians. So, if we like, we can go a step
further and name our nation, United Alkebulan Republic (meaning ‘United Mother
of Mankind Republic).”
Jokotoye also proposed changes to the structure of some
government agencies in the country.
“The new constitution should also give room for continuous
review as and when due, and future referendum if required also want to suggest
the following,” he said.
“The offices of the
chief justice, police, service chiefs and INEC should never be appointed by the
executive.
“The constitution should provide for a council for each of
these offices where six members from each geo-political zone will be
represented to take collective unanimous decisions for the office, instead of
one man holding all the powers of the office.
“These council members will attain the position by seniority
and numbers of years in service, and they will each need a department in the
service as well as being council members.”
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