By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives has emphasized the importance of the ongoing Constitution amendment process in strengthening national unity and promoting peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic nationalities. This was highlighted during the Constitution Review Public Hearing for the South East Zone, which took place in Enugu.
The public hearing, which comprised Enugu, Ebonyi, and Anambra States, saw a strong advocacy for the creation of an additional state in the South East geopolitical zone. This call was made to address the perceived imbalance in state creation across the country’s geopolitical zones.
Deputy Minority Whip of the House, George Ozodinobi, who chaired the South East Constitution Review Public Hearing for Zone A Centre, emphasized the National Assembly’s commitment to using the Constitution alteration process to build a strong and inclusive country. He urged presenters to focus on proposals that would promote growth, unity, peace, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Ozodinobi stressed that the foundation for national unity lies in how seriously the country handles the Constitution review process. He encouraged all stakeholders to prioritize proposals that would bring pride to every Nigerian and contribute to the country’s development.
The Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Moses Ijeh Odunwa, advocated for the creation of an additional state in the South East to address the imbalance in state creation across the country. He argued that this would ensure balance and parity among the geopolitical zones before considering applications for state creation in other zones.
The House Constitution Review Committee revealed that 46 applications were received for the creation of new states, while 117 memos sought the creation of new local government areas across the 36 states in Nigeria. These applications underscore the ongoing demands for restructuring and more equitable distribution of power and resources.
The Special Seats Bill received significant support during the public hearing, with advocates presenting various reasons why it should be passed into law. The bill aims to ensure representation and inclusion of specific groups in the country’s governance structure.
The Constitution review process presents a critical opportunity for Nigeria to address its structural and systemic challenges. By engaging with citizens and considering their inputs, the National Assembly can produce a constitution that truly reflects the hopes and values of Nigerians.
The outcome of the Constitution review process will determine the future of Nigeria’s governance structure and its ability to promote national unity, peace, and development. It is essential for all stakeholders to work together towards creating a constitution that serves the interests of all Nigerians.
