Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, announced that the National Assembly's effort to review the 1999 Constitution aims to establish a more equitable, united, and progressive federation.
Akpabio made these comments during the opening of the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the revision of the 1999 Constitution in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The event is planned to take place concurrently in five geopolitical zones throughout the country.
Anietie Ekong, the Special Assistant on Media/Communication to the President of the Senate, quoted Senator Akpabio stating that "The event today is more than just a formality."
It's a democratic ritual—a profound moment where the voice of the people, not just politicians, resonates within the nation's core. It serves as a reminder that in democracy every individual’s opinion matters.
Let's remember that democracy is always evolving. No constitution remains unchanged forever, and no democracy can achieve absolute perfection since humans themselves are not perfect. However, the real beauty of democracy is found in our shared journey towards improvement—that quest for a more perfect union.
Thus, revisiting our Constitution is a testament to our strength rather than frailty. It reflects not dissatisfaction with the past but dedication to the future. We make amendments not as an act of forsaking but as an initiative to readjust—aligning our national framework with the evolving realities, aspirations, and needs of Nigeria’s people.
He believes that all Nigerians have a stake in the country's democracy.
He stated that the public hearing demonstrated the Senate's steadfast belief that truth is revealed "not through silence, but through dialogue; not via monologue, but by gathering honest opinions."
"That's why we've come together—not as party affiliates, but as patriots. Not merely as political players, but as nation-builders," he remarked.
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, stated that the review marks a significant moment in Nigeria's democratic journey and should result in restructuring the nation.
Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi, remarked that the regional public hearing is far more than a routine legislative procedure; it represents a significant milestone in our democratic journey.
The evaluation of constitutional amendment bills across 13 thematic areas—carefully organized by the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution—addresses some of the most pressing and enduring issues related to our federal union's structure, efficiency, equity, and future.
These themes strongly resonate with the aspirations of the South South peoples. They reflect persistent demands from this region for a reformed Nigeria that is more just and responsive, where each federating unit can thrive, make meaningful contributions, and experience a sense of belonging.
In the South-South region, we view this exercise not only with interest but also with hope. We anticipate that this constitutional review process will transcend being merely a discussion forum and propel us towards establishing a federation that benefits everyone, safeguards individual rights, empowers communities, and maximizes the potential of each state.
Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Barau Jibrin, outlined several key areas that the constitution review aims to address.
Jibrin, represented by Senator Aniekan Bassey of Akwa Ibom North East, emphasized the need to address several pressing issues. These include electoral reforms and adjudication; judicial improvements in case management and administration; enhancements in local government operations; integrating traditional institutions into modern governance methods; promoting human rights as well as gender equity and inclusion within governmental structures. Additionally, attention must be given to devolving powers effectively across different levels of government—the structure of our federation—and addressing security and policing concerns.
At the public hearing, multiple interest groups submitted their memoranda.
The topics discussed encompassed state formation, the autonomy of local governments, gender inclusion, and the role of traditional rulers, among other subjects.
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