Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has called on leaders and stakeholders in the Nigerian project to make more commitment that will deepen the growth of democracy in Nigeria and promote national development, leveraging the ongoing constitutional review of the 1999 Constitution.
Kalu disclosed this yesterday during a special session of the House Committee on Constitution Review with the theme: “Consultation With Leaders of Political Parties” in Abuja.
The deputy speaker, who doubles as the chairman of the panel, emphasized the need for broad consensus and collective action to address the nation’s challenges.
According to him, “If constitutional amendments are to be legitimate, they must have your buy-in. If they are to be effective, they must address the challenges you face on the ground. And if they are to endure, they must reflect a broad consensus that transcends party lines.
Kalu therefore used the opportunity to call on all stakeholders to engage with the proposed amendments, to study the bills as well bring their concerns and suggestions to the table.
He, however, expressed gratitude to the members of the Committee for their tireless efforts in ensuring an inclusive process while calling on all stakeholders to work together to build a Constitution that reflects the hopes, values and collective spirations of all Nigerians.
“We have consulted widely. We have listened carefully. But the final word does not rest with us alone. Under our Constitution, any amendment must secure a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly and the approval of at least two-thirds of State Houses of Assembly. This means that the amendments we are proposing will only become law if they command broad, cross-party support. And that begins here, in this room, with you,” he explained.
In his welcome address at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasised the urgency of laws that will empower women socially, economically and most importantly politically.
Akpabio, who was represented by the chief whip of the Senate, Muhammed Monguno emphasised the urgency of constitutional reforms in Nigeria to ensuring that Nigerians collective aspirations are met.
