Abuja: The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Constitutional Review Committee, Mr. Benjamin Kalu, has stated that Nigeria is currently experiencing its most democratic era yet. He made this declaration during the House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review Consultation with Leaders of Political Parties in Abuja, emphasizing the pivotal role of political parties as the backbone of democracy.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Kalu highlighted the importance of political parties in the democratic process, stating, “You recruit candidates. You mobilise voters. You articulate competing visions for our nation’s future. You are the bridge between government and the governed.” He underscored the necessity of having the buy-in of political parties for constitutional amendments to be legitimate and effective. The consultation aimed to engage political parties as partners in nation-building rather than adversaries, as the committee seeks input on critical amendment bills
that will shape Nigerian democracy for future generations.
Mr. Kalu elaborated on the key amendment bills under consideration, which include ensuring women’s representation in legislative houses, granting financial autonomy to local governments, and streamlining the electoral process to reduce litigation. He emphasized that these reforms are central to the essence of democracy and called on political parties to focus on shared goals rather than differences, advocating for free, fair, and credible elections, gender equality in governance, and functional local governments.
The Deputy Speaker also explained the constitutional requirements for amendments, which need a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly and the approval of at least two-thirds of the State Houses of Assembly. He called on party leaders to engage with the proposed bills and contribute to the ongoing conversation about Nigeria’s future, stressing that a Constitution is a social contract that requires collective belief and participation.
Mr. Yusuf Dantalle, represented by Mr. Dipo Olayoku, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), expressed support for the constitutional review process. He commended the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review for organizing the consultative meeting and highlighted IPAC’s commitment to participating in amendments related to judicial and electoral reforms, local government autonomy, and more.
IPAC proposed amendments to the 1999 constitution, including the scrapping of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) and transferring local election responsibilities to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). They also suggested removing the executive’s power to appoint INEC officials and establishing an Independent Appointment Committee to ensure independence and transparency.
Mrs. Amina Graham, President of the National Women Leaders Forum of Political Parties, called the meeting a call to action and urged participants to utilize the forum effectively, emphasizing the
importance of representation in policy discussions to prevent marginalization.