The House of Representatives has pledged to make the constitution amendment process inclusive, promising to “speak with Nigerians, not for them.”
At the South-South Zonal Public Hearing in Calabar, House Minority Leader Hon. Kingsley Chinda emphasized that the committee is neutral and open to public input, with no fixed positions on the over 50 proposed amendments.
Chinda presented 60+ amendment bills grouped under 13 thematic areas, including electoral and judicial reforms, state policing, local government autonomy, inclusive governance, devolution of powers, and recognition of traditional institutions.
He encouraged organized, written submissions to avoid duplication, especially on state creation.
Cross River and Rivers States expressed strong support for state police, new states, and greater inclusion of women and persons with disabilities.
Cross River’s Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, called the hearing a “profound moment in history,” urging lawmakers to listen to the people and build a more just and inclusive system.
Rivers State representative Mrs. Vera Sam-Dike endorsed 73 of the amendment bills, including those on resource control, judicial reform, and traditional roles.
She emphasized that state policing is urgently needed to tackle worsening insecurity.
Both states called on the National Assembly to ensure these hearings lead to real change, not empty promises
