Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Umar Audu
Published on 2024-02-22 17:35:06
The Senate Committee with the task of reviewing the 1999 Constitution has vowed to complete the process within a timeframe of 24 months. This assurance was given by the Chairman of the Committee, Barau Jibrin, during the inaugural meeting of the committee in Abuja.
In his statement, Mr. Jibrin clarified that the Committee’s objective is not to rewrite the 1999 Constitution, but rather to process proposed amendments to it. He emphasized the committee’s commitment to concluding this assignment within the next 24 months.
Mr. Jibrin, who also serves as the Deputy Senate President, assured that the committee would approach the amendment of the constitution with diligence, guided by a carefully planned work plan. He mentioned the intention of the secretariat to present a work plan and process map with timelines to the Steering Committee for consideration and approval in the next meeting.
Furthermore, Mr. Jibrin expressed the committee’s intention to collaborate with members of the House of Representatives and engage with critical stakeholders in the amendment processes. He stressed the importance of working in synergy with counterparts in the House of Representatives and abiding by the laws and rules of legislative business, while also being innovative where possible.
The Chairman also emphasized the committee’s commitment to consulting and engaging critical stakeholders in a manner that would ensure the approval of bills passed by the National Assembly by the State Houses of Assembly and eventual assent by the President.
Addressing the members of the committee, Mr. Jibrin urged them to demonstrate commitment to the constitutional review, acknowledging the challenges posed by some of the issues already raised by critical stakeholders.
He congratulated the members on their nomination to the Committee, highlighting the significance of their rank as legislators and ranking Senators in their respective States and Geo-political zones, including special interest groups. He expressed hope that their wealth of experience and knowledge of the nation would contribute to the work of the Committee.
The Senate Committee’s commitment to completing the constitutional review within 24 months signifies the importance of the process in ensuring that the constitution reflects the aspirations and values of the Nigerian people. As the committee embarks on this significant task, it aims to engage with various stakeholders, uphold legislative rules and precedents, and innovate where possible to drive meaningful amendments to the constitution. The success of the committee’s work will have a far-reaching impact on the governance and development of Nigeria.
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