Shoddy constitution amendment can make or mar Nigeria — Jibrin

The Chairman, Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution, Sen. Barau Jibrin, has reminded members of the committee that any shoddy job in the assignment could have severe consequences for the country.

Jibrin, also the Deputy Senate President, said this at the opening ceremony of a retreat for the committee in Kano on Friday.

He said that the key objective of the retreat was to review and amend the 1999 Constitution to meet the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians.

He, therefore, urged the participants to approach the amendment with utmost care, considering its far-reaching implications for generations to come.

The lawmaker also called for a closer synergy among stakeholders in the course of the constitution review.

He identified the stakeholders to include House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on Constitution Review, the executive, governors, State Houses of Assemblies, judiciary, and the civil society organisations.

He said the partnership would help in building consensus on contentious issues through constructive dialogue.

He expressed gratitude to the technical experts for experience, which he said would enrich discussions and inform decisions.

He emphasised the importance of commitment to justice, equity, and progress in forging a more robust and inclusive constitutional framework for Nigeria.

The Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Adebo Ogundoyin called for the prompt transmission of the National Assembly resolutions on the proposed amendments to the states’ Houses of Assembly.

“We deeply appreciate the recognition and involvement of the states’ Houses of Assembly in this process.

“Your collaboration speaks volumes of the committee’s commitment to ensuring that the constitution reflects the true needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people.

“Your sincerity and dedication to driving meaningful constitutional amendments are evident, and we stand ready to work with you to achieve these goals,” Ogundoyin said.

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State, represented by the Commissioner for Internal Affairs, retired Maj. Gen. Mohammad Idris, said the retreat was timely.

He urged members of the committee to deliberate on issues that would move the country forward and ensure prompt submission of the report to the Senate for necessary action.