Deputy Speaker charges citizens of Abia and Imo to actively shape constitutional reforms as 87 amendment bills are under review
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu has called on Nigerians to actively engage in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution by holding lawmakers accountable and demanding greater transparency and fairness in governance.
Speaking on Saturday at the Constitution Review Public Hearing held in Owerri, the zonal centre covering Imo and Abia States, Kalu emphasized that the success of the constitutional reform process depends on robust civic participation. He urged citizens to move beyond observation and become active contributors to shaping Nigeria’s future.
“This is your Constitution. This is your moment,” Kalu declared. “You are not just observers; you are stakeholders and co-authors of Nigeria’s next constitutional chapter. Do not hold back your ideas, your criticisms, or your aspirations.”
Kalu, who chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, reiterated that constitutional reform is not a one-time event but a continuous process that requires consistent public engagement, vigilance, and advocacy to ensure that the eventual amendments are faithfully implemented.
He stressed the importance of citizen input through petitions, memoranda, and questions, which he said would directly influence the amendment proposals submitted to the National Assembly, the President, and ultimately, the Nigerian people.
“The strength of our democracy lies not in the pronouncements of lawmakers alone, but in the active participation of the people,” he said. “Your robust contributions will ensure the Constitution becomes not just a legal document, but a social contract reflecting our collective values.”
Currently, the House Committee is reviewing 87 prioritized amendment bills addressing critical national issues. Kalu urged the people of Abia and Imo to contribute meaningfully, especially on matters that resonate closely with them.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and support in facilitating the ongoing constitutional reform. Kalu acknowledged the President’s commitment to institutional strengthening and governance reform.
“President Tinubu’s reform-focused agenda and his respect for the legislature’s constitutional mandate have created an enabling environment for this historic review. We are grateful for his support and leadership,” Kalu added.
Concluding his remarks, Kalu called on Nigerians to rise above political and regional divisions and work together to build a just, equitable, and progressive Nigeria.
“Let us embrace our shared destiny and ensure that justice, equity, and progress become not just ideals, but daily realities for every Nigerian,” he said.
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