Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has urged Nigerians to seize the opportunity provided by the ongoing constitution review to demand more accountability and transparency from the National Assembly.
Speaking during the public hearing held in Owerri for Imo and Abia States, Kalu emphasized that the review of the 1999 Constitution is a collective task and not just a legislative formality. He encouraged citizens to be vocal in shaping the legal foundation of the country.
“This is your Constitution. This is your moment,” Kalu said, urging citizens to submit memoranda, raise concerns, and participate fully in the process. “Your voices matter. Your future matters.”
He stressed that constitutional reform is a continuous process and not a one-off event, noting that the input gathered would go through legislative debate, harmonization with the Senate, and eventual approval by State Houses of Assembly.
The Deputy Speaker, who also chairs the Constitution Review Committee, revealed that 87 constitutional amendment bills are currently under consideration, all addressing crucial issues in the country.
He praised President Bola Tinubu for fostering a supportive environment for reforms, describing the president’s commitment to the rule of law and institutional strengthening as key to the success of the exercise.
Kalu encouraged people from Imo and Abia to take the process seriously and make contributions that reflect their aspirations. “We are listening,” he said. “Let’s build a Nigeria where justice, equity, and progress are not just dreams but daily realities.”
