Lagos: The Conference of Speakers of State Assemblies, South-West Zone, has called on the National Assembly to enact strong laws to address boundary disputes in the country. The Chairman of the conference in the zone, Mr Adeoye Aribasoye, made the call while speaking at Day 2 of the South-West Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Senate Committee on the Constitution Review conducted public hearings on requests for the review of the constitution across the geo-political zones. Aribasoye emphasized the importance of the ongoing constitution review as an opportunity to address conflicts arising from boundary disputes. He expressed concerns over internal conflicts, stating that it is not beneficial for communities to engage in disputes over boundaries and highlighted the role of the National Boundary Commission in resolving these issues.
Aribasoye also advocated for the creation of state police to tackle security challenges, referencing the internal security mechanism ‘Amotekun’ established by South-West governors. Additionally, he called for the creation of more states to enhance government proximity to the people and foster inclusiveness in governance. He urged for the speedy consideration and approval of the proposal for state creation already submitted to the 10th National Assembly.
Addressing issues within the state legislature, Aribasoye called for legislative provisions to curb the arbitrary removal of presiding officers, which he noted as a rampant issue in state assemblies. He proposed that conditions should be prescribed for such removals, drawing from the South-West’s internal rules and standing orders as a potential model for amendment.
Furthermore, Aribasoye raised concerns over the proclamation of assemblies and the inauguration of elected lawmakers, citing instances where governors refused to inaugurate opposition lawmakers. He suggested empowering the clerk of the house to conduct inaugurations, ensuring that elected individuals are not denied their positions.
In response, Sen. Jubrin Barau, represented by his Vice Chairman and Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele, highlighted that the constitution already provides guidance on assembly proceedings. He noted that any amendments needed should focus on assembly rules rather than the constitution itself.
The public hearing saw presentations from various organizations, including youth, students, and women’s groups, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on constitutional amendments.