Constitutional Review Will Guarantee A Just Federation, Says Akpabio

Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, has stated that the National Assembly’s review of the 1999 Constitution will ensure the evolution of a more just, cohesive, and forward-looking federation.

Akpabio made the statements while opening the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom state.

The drill is expected to take place simultaneously in five geopolitical zones around the country.

Senator Akpabio stated, “Today’s gathering is not only a formality.

“It is a democratic rite—a solemn moment in which the people, not just politicians, speak into the soul of the country. This declaration emphasises the value of every voice in a democracy.

Remember that democracy is constantly growing. No constitution is everlasting in its original form, and no democracy is flawless—because man is not perfect. The ultimate beauty of democracy, however, resides in our common pursuit of perfection—a more perfect union.

“Therefore, reviewing our Constitution is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. It is not a complaint about the past, but rather a pledge to the future. We amend not to forsake, but to realign—to tailor our national charter to the changing realities, dreams, and demands of the Nigerian people.”

According to him, every Nigerian has a stake in the country’s democracy.

He stated that the public hearing demonstrated the Senate’s unchanging commitment that truth arises “not from silence, but from dialogue; not from monologue, but from the aggregation of honest opinions”.

“That is why we’re here—not as party members, but as patriots.” He continued: “We are not here as political actors, but as nation-builders.”

Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, said the review was a watershed moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey that must result in a country-wide restructuring.

Eno, who was represented by Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi, stated, “This zonal public hearing is more than just a formal step in legislative activity. Indeed, this is a watershed moment in our democratic history.

“The Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution painstakingly curated dozens of constitution amendment bills over 13 subject areas to address some of the most pressing and persistent problems concerning the structure, efficiency, equity, and destiny of our federal union.

“These topics are profoundly connected to the yearnings of the peoples of the South South. Indeed, they reflect long-standing calls in this area for a more just, responsive, and restructured Nigeria, one in which every federating unit may thrive, contribute meaningfully, and have a sense of belonging.

“Here in the South South, we look to this exercise not just with interest, but with hope—hope that this constitutional review process, will, far from being just another talk shop, move us closer to a federation that works for all, protects the rights of every citizen, empowers communities, and unlocks the full potential of states.”

Barau Jibrin, Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Constitution reform Committee, identified some critical issues for the constitution reform.

“Several key issues we need to address include electoral reforms and adjudicatio, judicial reforms focused on case management and administration, enhancements to local government administration, the involvement of traditional institutions in contemporary governance, promoting human rights, ensuring gender equity and inclusion in governance, the devolution and distribution of powers, the structure of our federation, and concerns related to security and policing,” Jibrin, the president, said.

Several interest groups presented memoranda during the public hearing.
The topics discussed included state formation, local government autonomy, female inclusion, and the role of traditional rulers, among others.