An advocacy group, Joint Action for Good Governance (JAGG), has commended the nation’s federal legislators on the proposed constitutional amendment, advising them on some important areas.
It urged the lawmakers to put on the front burner legislation that would tighten security and the economy in the sixth amendment process to the nation’s 1999 Constitution.
The National Vice President of JAGG, Mr. Abdulwaheed Odunuga, who appealed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos, said that such issues matter most to Nigerians now.
“We commend the initiative taken by Nigeria’s House of Representatives in setting up a Special Committee for the review of the 1999 Constitution amendment.
“It is indeed a commendable step towards ensuring that our constitution reflects the evolving needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people.
“We would like to state that issues that will enhance the security and welfare of citizens, which remain the primary function of government, should be on the front burner of these amendments, among other things,” Odunuga said.
He appreciated the leadership of the House of Representatives for its commitment to inclusive governance.
Odunuga applauded the House’s resolve to engage Nigerians across senatorial districts through open forums and digital platforms to gather their input.
According to him, this approach demonstrates a genuine desire to incorporate diverse perspectives into the constitutional review process.
“While we acknowledge the importance of the 40 bills proposed for amendment, we must raise concerns regarding the lack of public disclosure of the 24-month Constitution amendment roadmap.
“Given the gravity of the issues listed for amendment, such as addressing insecurity and economic difficulties, transparency and public participation are crucial for ensuring legitimacy and effectiveness in the amendment process.
“We urge the House of Representatives to prioritise transparency and accountability by promptly making the Constitution amendment roadmap public.
“This will allow Nigerians to understand the timeline and process for the review and provide meaningful contributions at each stage.
”Additionally, it will enhance trust in the constitutional review process and promote inclusivity in decision-making,” he said.
Odunuga further recommended that the House of Representatives establish mechanisms for regular updates and consultations with stakeholders throughout the 24-month roadmap.
According to him, this will enable continuous engagement and feedback, ensuring that the constitutional review reflects the collective aspirations of the Nigerian people.
“While we appreciate the initiative taken by the House of Representatives, we emphasise the importance of transparency, public participation, and accountability in the Constitution amendment process.
“By adhering to these principles, we can ensure that the review leads to meaningful reforms that address the pressing challenges facing our nation and contribute to the realisation of our national goals,” he added.
Recall that the House of Representatives recently inaugurated its constitutional review committee for the alteration of the 1999 Nigerian constitution as amended.
The Speaker, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, while inaugurating the committee, said that the step marked another significant moment in the democratic journey towards a more ‘perfect union’.
He said that it was expected that the Sixth Amendment under the tenth National Assembly would be the most comprehensive. (NAN)
