By Gloria Ikibah
The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives and Chairman Committee on Constitution Review, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has stressed that enhancing the functionality of local governments, judiciary, electoral matters, and security is central to the ongoing constitutional review by the parliament.
The Deputy Speaker who stated this during a meeting of the House Committee on Constitution Review on Thursday, called attention to additional key issues such as the devolution of power, gender equality, revenue and fiscal reforms, and human rights.
According to him, these topics will receive significant attention from the parliament throughout the review process, and that parliament aims to “bolster the autonomy and effectiveness of local government administrations, ensuring they serve as the grassroots foundation of governance”.
Kalu emphasised the importance of promoting judicial independence, improving access to justice, and streamlining the administration of justice for all Nigerians, while maintaining the integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness of the electoral processes.
On security, he said the constitution review will address the urgent need for a more robust and localized security framework to safeguard lives and properties, promote a more equitable distribution of responsibilities between the federal, state, and local governments and advance gender equity, ensuring fair representation and inclusion of women in all spheres of governance.
The committee chairman further stated that the Committee will produce a constitution that will enhance fiscal responsibility, equity in revenue allocation, and economic development across all tiers of government and strengthen the protection and promotion of fundamental rights, reflecting the aspirations of all Nigerians.
Kalu said: “These areas are not just pillars of our constitutional review; they are the foundation for building a more equitable, just, and functional Nigeria.
“As we all know, constitution amendment is a complex process, requiring the input, consensus, and sacrifice of diverse stakeholders across our federation. This committee has made remarkable progress, but there is still much to be done. I implore you to continue to double your efforts, maintaining the momentum necessary for the success of this national endeavour”.
Rep. Kalu reeled out the successes so far recorded by the committee to include successful engagement with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and attendance of the southwest zonal Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures – Southwest Zone.
He explained that “these engagements are a testament to our commitment to inclusivity, dialogue, and consensus-building as the bedrock of this constitution review process”.
He further revealed that the House was organizing a National Dialogue on Local Government and Constitution Amendment scheduled to be held on Monday, 2nd December 2024, in Abuja.
“This event is a vital platform to consolidate ideas and strategies for achieving a robust local government framework, which is critical to our constitutional review efforts.
“In addition, other engagements that we will be having include public engagement on tax reforms as it concerns the constitution amendment and a public engagement with political parties.”
“As we continue in this historic undertaking, let us remain guided by our shared commitment to strengthening our democracy, deepening our federal structure, and fostering unity and prosperity for all Nigerians.”