The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has restated the 10th National Assembly’s resolve to deliver a people-driven constitution that reflects the true aspirations of Nigerians.
Speaking at the National Public Hearing on the constitutional review exercise held Abuja on Monday, Kalu described the process as the most inclusive and participatory in Nigeria’s history. He explained that the 87 proposed amendments were developed through wide consultations across the six geopolitical zones and are rooted in the submissions of citizens rather than legislative imposition.
Key Areas of Reform Highlights
Electoral Reforms: Proposals include independent candidacy, creation of an Electoral Offences Commission, and fixed timelines for pre-election matters to safeguard the people’s mandate.
Devolution of Powers: A landmark proposal seeks to move policing from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent List, paving the way for state and community policing.
Local Government Autonomy: Suggested amendments guarantee both financial and administrative independence for local governments to strengthen grassroots development.
Gender Inclusion: Bills propose reserved seats for women in legislative houses and gender balance in government appointments.
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Kalu emphasized that while the public hearing marks the final stage of direct citizen engagement, the process will now advance to parliamentary debates, harmonization with the Senate, and eventual ratification by at least 24 State Houses of Assembly. He called on Nigerians to remain engaged and hold their representatives accountable to prevent dilution of reforms.
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing political will and an enabling environment, Kalu reminded stakeholders that ultimate authority rests with the people. He concluded with a call for unity, urging Nigerians to rise above ethnic and religious divides to craft a constitution that guarantees justice, inclusivity, and progress for future generations.
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