The proposals at the North-East public hearing on Constitution Review were predominantly centred around the establishment of new states and local government areas (LGAs).
During the opening of the two-day zonal hearing in Maiduguri on Friday, Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau, also Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review (CRC), expressed delight at the substantial attendance.
Barau, represented by Senator Tahir Monguno, the Senate Chief Whip, assured attendees of the Senate’s commitment to fairly representing the interests of all groups advocating for amendments.
“The committee members do not come with preconceived ideas but are dedicated to adhering to the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and open-mindedness,” he affirmed.
He urged everyone present to consider their involvement as a crucial civic duty, contributing to the progress of democratic practices and influencing the nation’s future.
Barau acknowledged that numerous significant national issues remain unresolved, necessitating more than routine legislative action from the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.
He noted that many Nigerians feel that the challenges facing the country regarding constitutional and governmental affairs extend beyond a mere requirement for amendments.
In response to rising demands, the 10th Senate charged the committee with fostering a broad national consensus instead of simply reflecting the opinions of a dominant minority in media discussions.
“This context guided the committee in seeking proposals aimed at constitutional reforms that would enhance governance and promote the welfare of all citizens, grounded in the principles of freedom, equality, and justice,” he stated.
The committee is open to all perspectives, particularly from those unable to travel to Abuja to voice their views.
Barau invited participants to express their opinions and engage in the essential reform process that seeks to fortify democratic institutions and improve governance.
In his remarks, Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, represented by Deputy Alhaji Umar Kadafur, commended the National Assembly for providing a platform for the unheard voices of Nigerians.
The speakers from the six North-East state assemblies, led by Borno Assembly Speaker Abdulkarim Lawan, advocated for legislative autonomy to ensure effective governance.
The Shehu of Borno, Dr Abubakar El-kanemi, highlighted the importance of a defined role for traditional institutions within the constitutional review process.
Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and advocate for the creation of Katagum State from Bauchi State, called for electoral reforms and a restructuring of governmental institutions for better service delivery.
