The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Kalu, says periodic constitution review is critical to survival of democratic rule.
Mr Kalu stated this in Owerri at the Constitution Review Public Hearing for Imo and Abia State,
He urged Nigerians to ask tough questions, demand transparency, and fairness, as the future of democracy depends on it.
”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.
“It will be a document that reflects the hopes and values of all Nigerians.”
Mr Kalu, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, emphasized that constitutional reform is a process, not an event.
He explained, “The bills we debate today will be debated in plenary, harmonized with the Senate, and transmitted to the State Houses of Assembly for final approval.
Continued engagement
He urged Nigerians to sustain engagement with their representatives and elected leaders.
“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.
“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.
He charged Nigerians to actively participate in the process, demanding transparency and accountability from lawmakers and other public office holders.
“I urge you to hold us accountable. Ask the tough questions. Demand transparency. Insist on fairness. The future of our democracy depends on it.
”Nigeria’s greatness lies in its ability to have difficult conversations, to listen, to debate, and to find common ground.
“To the people of Abia and Imo: Your ideas matter. Your voices matter. Your future matters.
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