Constitutional review: Former Senate President makes case for traditional institution, women in politics

Saturday, September 28, 2024 8:20 pm

Members of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution during the Retreat at Bristol Palace, Kano, on Friday

Constitutional review, Former Senate President, Traditional institution, Women in politics ,

Constitutional review: Former Senate President makes case for traditional institution, women in politics

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

President of the 9th Senate, Dr. Ahmed Lawan, on Friday in Kano, urged the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review to ensure that the traditional institution is given recognition in the ongoing process to review the 1999 constitution.

Lawan also called for constitutional backing on the inclusiveness of women in politics.

The immediate past Senate President spoke during the Retreat of the Senate Committee on Review of the 1999 Constitution, held at Bristol Palace, Kano.

He further stressed the need for proper consideration of women and the traditional Institution to play advisory role in the constitution.

He also advocated Local Governments autonomy in the constitution, “as doing so will greatly impact the lives of the rural communities.”

In his welcome remarks, the Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman, Senate Committee on Constitution Review, Senator Barau Jibrin, urged memebers of the Committee to work in synergy with other lawmakers and all stakeholders to achieve the desired goal.

He said: “this is an assignment for us to work in synergy with our colleagues and other stakeholders to produce an outstanding report and recommendations, which, of course, will be composed of suggestions and recommendations to the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for further deliberation and approval.

“As we embark on this critical journey, let us remember the timeless values that make nations great: freedom, equality, and justice. These enduring ideals should guide us through this arduous task.

” As we consider desirable amendments to our Constitution, I implore that we do so with the utmost care and consideration. Our decisions today will have far-reaching implications for generations to come, and we must ensure that they are in the best interests of all Nigerians.

“Furthermore, to achieve meaningful reform, we must synergise with our esteemed colleagues in the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Constitution Review and collaborate with critical stakeholders, including the executive arm of government, State Governors, State Assemblies, the judiciary, and civil society organisations, to build consensus on contentious issues.

“Our collective success hinges on our ability to work together seamlessly, sharing ideas and expertise to develop a report to be submitted to the Senate for further legislative actions. This retreat presents a unique opportunity for constructive good-faith dialogue and collective problem-solving.

“I extend my profound gratitude, and that of the entire Committee, to the esteemed technical experts who have graciously provided expert support and counsel to the Committee. Your invaluable insights, drawn from years of experience and expertise in diverse disciplines, will significantly enrich our discussions and inform our decisions.

“As we embark on this vital journey, let us remain steadfastly committed to justice, equity, and progress. Together, we can forge a more robust and inclusive constitutional framework for our beloved nation, Nigeria, as we seek to build a brighter future for all our citizens.”

In his goodwill message, the Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, described the Reyreat as timely and critical to the nation’s unity and socio-economic development.

He further stated that: “At this juncture, we reiterate our earlier call for the prompt transmission of the National Assembly’s resolutions on the proposed amendments to the State Houses of Assembly.

” Timely submission is essential to allow us at the sub-national level to effectively fulfill our responsibilities. We recall the challenges posed by electioneering activities during the 2023 general elections, which nearly hampered the last constitutional alteration. We are determined to avoid a recurrence, and an early start will be key to ensuring a smooth and efficient process of election.”

Kano state Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir yusuf urged members of the Committee to dischrage their duties with honesty, dedication and determination to ensure that the new constitution will bring about the desired change that all Nigerians are hoping for.

Governor yusuf who was represented by the Commissioner of Internal Security, General M. I. Idris (rtd), assured members of the Committee of the full support of government and the people of Kano state as they deliberate for a better Nigeria.