Strong calls for electoral and judicial reforms and a resounding rejection of a proposed bill to move labour issues from Exclusive to Concurrent Legislative List were among key issues canvassed on Day 2 of the Southeast Zonal Public Hearing on review of 1999 Constitution.
Chairman of Southeast Zonal Senate Committee team, Onyekachi Nwebonyi said he was inspired by the depth and seriousness of the submissions made over the two-day public hearing.
One of the loudest calls was for electoral reforms, with citizens demanding full independence for the electoral body, compulsory electronic transmission of results, diaspora voting, independent candidacy, and automatic loss of seat for defecting elected officers.
Judicial reforms also came into focus as participants shared ideas on how to eliminate delays in court processes and build a justice system that truly serves the people.
There was wide support for restructuring resource control, with many backing the transfer of mining and mineral oversight to state governments.
MUST READ: NADCEL 2025: Nigerian Army Champions ‘Soldier First’ Culture to Boost Trust and Transformation
Labour unions in the Southeast zone, however pushed hard against a bill to decentralize labour issues in the country, warning it would endanger workers’ rights.
An emotional moment came when members of the disabled community appealed for greater political inclusion, urging lawmakers to ensure policies that recognize their rights and give them a seat at the table.
Some voices went further, calling for a completely new constitution based on the 2014 National Conference Report, rather than more amendments to the current one.
Senator Nwebonyi described the hearing as inspiring, adding that the passion and clarity of the submissions are a proof that the people are ready to lead change.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
