Constitution review: Reps Deputy Speaker, Uzodimma sues for state police, creation of two states

By Chigozie Uzosike…

The Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu has called for moving security and state policing from the exclusive list to the concurrent list.

Speaking during the one-day zonal public hearing (Imo and Abia) on review of the 1999 Nigerian  constitution held in Owerri Saturday,  he said, “The landmark bill (HB-617) to transfer
policing to the concurrent list, enabling state and local government police is valid. Your lived experience with security challenges makes your input invaluable”.

Speaking on gender bills and inclusive governance, he said, “Your proposals to create reserved
seats for women, ensure gender balance in key commissions, and promote fairness in leadership is not out of place. The South East has a rich history of women’s
leadership. Let your voices be heard”.

On the issue of Fiscal Reforms: amendments to enhance accountability, he talked about improving revenue management, and ensuring that resources benefit all Nigerians, not just a privileged few. “Let us work together to build a Nigeria where no zone is left behind.

The Deputy Speaker noted that devolution of powers bills will create decentralized governance, transfer key responsibilities to the states, and empower local communities to control their destiny”.

“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”.

“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”.

“It is with immense pride in Nigeria’s democratic journey that I welcome you to this historic Zonal Public Hearing in Owerri, the Heartland of the South East, and Nigeria. This is not just a gathering; it is a national conversation; it is the voice of the people shaping the destiny of our great nation.
Nigeria’s journey since independence has been a continuous quest for a constitutional order that truly reflects the aspirations and diversity of its people”.

“From the Clifford Constitution of 1922 to the 1999 Constitution, each phase has sought to address the evolving needs and challenges of
our society. Yet, we recognize that no constitution is ever truly perfect or finished. It must remain a living document, one that adapts to the realities of the times, the hopes of its people, and the demands of good
governance”.

“The 2025 constitutional review process is, without doubt, the most
comprehensive and inclusive in our nation’s history. Our mandate is clear: to close the gaps in our legal system, strengthen our institutions, and ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of state, status, or gender, is fairly represented and protected under the law. This is a sacred duty, and one we do not take lightly”.

“These are not mere normalities; they are genuine efforts to ensure that every voice is heard, every concern considered, and every proposal subjected to the highest
standards of scrutiny. Let me pause here to express my deepest appreciation to my esteemed
colleagues on this Committee: dedicated legislators from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Your commitment, intellectual rigor, and patriotism have been the driving force behind this process. To our consultants, advisers, and the tireless committee staff, your insights, technical expertise, and administrative diligence have made this ambitious
undertaking possible”.

“I laud the visionary leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 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”.

In his remarks, the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma canvassed for creation of two more states from Southeast to balance with other zones to make democracy work and work for the betterment of the citizens.

Uzodimma talked about invoking the indigeneship policy where citizens who have lived beyond ten years in a state or country can work in any part of the country without discrimination.

“There’s need for constitutional entrenchment of rotational presidency instead of the North and South zoning of the exalted position. We support state police. The use of traditional infrastructure will go a long way to addressing the issues of crime and criminality.