In light of the concerns and constructive feedback received from various stakeholders regarding the Constitution Alteration Bill on Indigene and Residency Status, the House Committee on Constitutional Review has received communication from the Sponsor of the Bill, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu to formally withdraw the bill from further consideration at this stage.
The intention behind the bill was to promote national unity, equity, and inclusiveness among all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside.
However, on the basis of a Bill Analysis Report, forwarded by the Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, it has become necessary to step down the Bill.
Part of the report reads:
“There is no need for Constitutional alteration. Rather, states should make laws that would allow settlers to benefit the same rights and privileges enjoyed by indigenes without any form of discrimination as rightly provided for in the constitution.”
The report further recommends that:
“Though the Bill seeks to achieve some commendable objectives, however, this can be achieved through enactment of law. If this bill is passed, it would pose challenges with time, especially on the issue of double or multiple indigenship.”
As leaders and representatives, the House remains committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people we serve.
The Constitution Review process remains an open, inclusive, and participatory exercise, and no provision or proposal will be pursued without adequate dialogue and consensus-building.
We therefore call on citizens to continue engaging constructively with the House Committee on Constitutional Review as we work together to build a more just, united, and prosperous Nigeria.
Wali Baba Shehu
Clerk, House Committee on Constitutional Review
