Reps Committee Meets Political Parties Today on 1999 Constitution Amendment

The House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review will today (Monday) hold a strategic meeting with the leadership of all registered political parties as part of ongoing efforts to amend the 1999 Constitution.

The committee, chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has identified several key areas for possible amendment, including the creation of state police, local government autonomy, power devolution, and special seats for women, among others.

A few weeks ago, the committee embarked on a nationwide tour across the six geopolitical zones, engaging stakeholders and collecting submissions to guide the constitutional review process. The final draft of proposed amendments is expected to be presented to the National Assembly by December 2025 for consideration and adoption.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, the meeting will feature deliberations on priority issues such as judicial and electoral reforms, independent candidacy, human rights, local government reforms, and justice.

“The session will provide political parties with an opportunity to make inputs, share perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to discussions on key national issues,” the statement read.

Speaking ahead of the engagement, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu described the meeting as a vital platform for political parties to bring their institutional experience and insights to bear on the reform process.

“Political parties remain the engine room of our democracy, and their active participation is essential to achieving constitutional amendments that are inclusive, credible, and reflective of the collective aspirations of Nigerians,” Kalu said.

The statement further noted that a summarised compendium of all bills currently being reviewed by the committee has been prepared to guide deliberations during the session.