Reps Delay Constitution Review Again

The House of Representatives has once more pushed back the consideration of the report on the amendment of the 1999 Constitution.

Lawmakers stepped down the process after agreeing that members needed more time to study the document before open debate could continue.

The review was earlier scheduled for Wednesday, with 11 items listed for discussion, but it was shifted to Thursday. When the House reconvened, members took different positions, leading to another delay. The bills waiting for consideration cover issues such as local government reforms, inclusive governance, citizenship, electoral changes, state police, and institutional strengthening.

Ahead of the planned debate, the Deputy Speaker urged lawmakers to submit their input, noting that Nigerians expect the National Assembly to handle the review with care. His call triggered mixed reactions. Some lawmakers argued that they had not fully read the report and needed more time. They insisted that the document carries major proposals that require careful examination.

Others warned that further delays could slow down a process that has already taken years. They reminded the House that Nigerians have been waiting for progress after several public hearings and consultations across the country. These members argued that starting the debate, even if only a few lawmakers contribute initially, would show commitment to the amendment process.

Lawmakers from some states said they needed to consult constituents on sensitive issues such as state police and independent candidacy. They warned that moving ahead without these consultations could weaken public trust in the final outcome.

A few members pushed for immediate consideration, saying that postponing the process repeatedly sends the wrong message. They stressed that many members were ready to start and asked that the Clerk provide copies of the report for those present.

In the end, the Deputy Speaker ruled that the House would wait until next week. The new date has not been announced, leaving the long-awaited constitution review paused yet again.