Constitution review: Kalu urges Nigerians to demand accountability, transparency

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has urged Nigerians to take advantage of the ongoing constitution review p...

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has urged Nigerians to take advantage of the ongoing constitution review process to demand greater accountability and transparency from the 10th National Assembly.

Speaking on Saturday at the Constitution Review Public Hearing in Owerri, the centre serving Imo and Abia States, Kalu highlighted the importance of citizens’ participation in the process.

The public hearing is a part of the ongoing efforts to review and amend the 1999 Constitution, with stakeholders and citizens making submissions on the way forward for the Nigerian state.

Kalu, who chairs the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, noted that the exercise is a process and not an event, stressing that citizens’ continued engagement is crucial for ensuring that reforms are implemented in both the letter and spirit.

A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Levinus Nwabughiogu quoted Kalu as saying, “I urge you to hold us accountable. Ask the tough questions. Demand transparency. Insist on fairness. The future of our democracy depends on it.

“Today, I make a heartfelt appeal to every son and daughter of Abia and Imo: this is your Constitution. This is your moment. 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.

“Your memoranda, your petitions, your passionate speeches, your questions: they all matter. They will shape the amendments that will be presented to the National Assembly, to the President, and, ultimately, to the Nigerian people. Let me be clear: we are listening.

“The strength of our democracy lies not in the pronouncements of lawmakers alone, but in the active participation of the people. Your robust contributions will ensure that the Constitution we produce is not just a legal document, but a social contract: one that reflects the hopes and values of all Nigerians.

“As we look ahead, let us remember: constitutional reform is not an event, but a process. The bills we debate today will be debated in plenary, harmonised with the Senate, and transmitted to the State Houses of Assembly for final approval. Only with your continued engagement, your vigilance, and your advocacy can we ensure that these reforms are not just passed, but implemented in letter and spirit.

“Nigeria’s greatness lies in its ability to have difficult conversations, to listen, debate, and find common ground. Today, in Owerri, we continue that noble tradition. To the people of Abia and Imo: your ideas matter. Your voices matter. Your future matters.

“Let us rise above division, embrace our shared destiny, and build a Nigeria where justice, equity, and progress are not just ideals, but everyday realities.”

He reminded the people that the Committee is currently considering 87 prioritised constitutional amendment bills, stating “Each touching on the most pressing issues facing our nation. I urge you, the people of Abia and Imo, to engage robustly on all thematic areas, especially those close to your hearts,” he said.

The Deputy Speaker acknowledged the leadership of President Bola Tinubu in driving constitutional reform and institutional strengthening in Nigeria.

He expressed gratitude for the President’s support and commitment to working with the legislature to deliver a constitution that serves all Nigerians.

“I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the visionary leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, GCFR. Under his stewardship, Nigeria has embraced a reform-heavy agenda: one that recognizes the urgent need for constitutional renewal, institutional strengthening, and

inclusive growth.

“President Tinubu’s commitment to the rule of law, his respect for the legislature’s constitutional role, and his bold strides in

governance reform have created an enabling environment for this historic review. We are grateful for his support and leadership, and we remain committed to working with the executive to deliver a constitution that serves all Nigerians,” Kalu added.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).