Nigeria’s Constitution Review: A step towards a more just and united federation – Akpabio

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has said that the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly aimed to create a more just, united, and forward-looking federation.

Akpabio made the remarks while declaring open the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the constitution review in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

A statement by the Special Assistant on Media/Communication to the Senate President, Anietie Ekong, quoted Senator Akpabio as saying, “Today’s event is not merely a formality.

”It is a democratic rite a solemn moment in which the people, not politicians alone, speak into the soul of the nation. It is an affirmation that in a democracy, every voice counts. ”

It added, “Let us not forget that democracy is a work in progress. No constitution is eternal in its original form, and no democracy is perfect because man himself is not perfect.

”But it is in our collective pursuit of perfection that more perfect union that the true beauty of democracy lies.

“Therefore, the review of our Constitution is not a sign of weakness, but of strength.

”It is not a complaint against the past, but a commitment to the future. We amend not to abandon, but to realign to adapt our national charter to the changing realities, dreams, and demands of the good people of Nigeria.”

He emphasised that democracy is a work in progress and that the constitution review is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Akpabio noted that the review process was an opportunity to adapt the national charter to the changing realities and demands of Nigerians.

On his part, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi, described the review as an important moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Eno emphasised that the process should lead to a restructuring of the country, ensuring a more just and responsive federation.

Also, the Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Barau Jibrin, outlined key areas the review would address, including electoral reforms, judicial reforms, local government administration, human rights, gender equity, and security concerns.

During the public hearing, various interest groups presented memoranda, covering issues such as state creation, local government autonomy, gender inclusion, and the role of traditional rulers.

The exercise is being held simultaneously in five geopolitical zones across the country.