The 10th National Assembly is determined to amend the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in line with contemporary realities and to reflect the wishes and aspirations of the people.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution, Honourable Benjamin Kalu at the first retreat of the Committee in Akwa Ibom State, said the amendment of the constitution was necessary to adapt to existing realities and enhance good governance.
The amendment of Nigeria’s constitution is necessary to strengthen the rule of law and ensure accountability in governance.
This informs the importance of the First retreat of the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 at the serene ambiance of Ikot Ekpene, the Rafia City, Akwa Ibom State.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu reveals that the committee has so far received 305 proposals and 112 bills from Nigerians demanding the amendment of the 1999 Constitution.
The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno represented by his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, has charged the committee to ensure the amended constitution reflects the desires of Nigerians and stands the test of time.
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The Chairman, Conference of Speakers of the State Legislatures of Nigeria, Adebo Ogundoyin, identifies state police, local government autonomy, and devolution of power as national issues that require urgent constitutional review.
The three-day retreat specifically availed the committee members the opportunity of receiving reports on previous constitution alteration bills that did not pass at the National and State Assemblies or were not assented to by the President and deliberated on the action plan to address them.
