By Gloria Ikibah
A major milestone was recorded on Wednesday at plenary as a bill seeking to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to provide for independent candidacy in Nigeria was recommitted and referred to the Constitution Review Committee of the House of Representatives for further legislative action.
This development is a significant step towards promoting electoral reforms and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Naijablitznews.com reports that th House of Representatives had earlier inaugurated a Constitution Review Committee to address various issues, including electoral reforms, devolution of powers, and fiscal federalism earlier this year.
The bill, titled “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB1630) (Independent Candidates),” is sponsored by Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., who represents the Ekiti North 1 (lkole/Oye) Federal Constituency. This piece of crucial legislation, is a legacy bill from previous assemblies (7th, 8th, 9th), was reintroduced for consideration after being read for the first time in the 10th Assembly on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
The sponsor of the bill emphasized the importance of expanding political participation through independent candidacy.
He said: “This legislative action is pivotal for the continued evolution of our democracy. It recognizes the constitutional significance of offering citizens the option to run for public office independently, thereby ensuring greater inclusivity. “
The bill’s progress is guided by the combined provisions of Order Twelve, Rule 17, and Order 1, Rule 1(2), of the House of Representatives Standing Orders, underscoring the House’s commitment to a thorough legislative process.
Speaking to journalists on the bill after the plenary on Thursday, the Founder of ElectHER, Ms. Ibijoke Faborode said the recommittal of the Independent Candidacy Bill was a critical and progressive milestone.
She expressed enthusiasm at seeing the National Assembly unite in support of the bill, underscoring their dedication to a legislative agenda that promotes inclusiivity. Faborode also highlighted that the progress of the bill in the 10th Assembly marked a defining moment for Nigeria, with the potential to significantly shape the future of its democracy.
She therefore reaffirmed ElectHER’s continued partnership with the office of the House Spokesperson to champion public advocacy and engagement towards the final passage of the bill.
The bill was recommitted to the House Committee on Constitution Review for further comprehensive consideration and legislative action.