Reps shift constitution amendment report consideration to next week

The House of Representatives on Thursday postponed the consideration of the constitution amendment report to next week, following fresh calls from members for more time to study the proposals and consult widely.

The House had earlier stepped down the exercise on Wednesday to allow lawmakers complete deliberations on the security debate and prepare adequately for the constitution review.

During Thursday’s plenary, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who presided in the Committee of the Whole, invited the Deputy House Leader, Abdullahi Halims Ibrahim, to present a synopsis of the report.

But Hon. Inuwa Garba raised a Point of Order, insisting that lawmakers needed sufficient time to review the far-reaching proposals, noting that many members had not yet received copies of the document.

Several lawmakers supported the call for a postponement. Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa (Kano, APC) described the constitution review as a “critical national assignment” that required adequate preparation.

He cautioned against rushing the process, recalling that the matter had already been shifted earlier in the week. Hon. Ibrahim Ayokunle-Isiaka (Ogun, APC) said the constitution remains the “pillar” of Nigeria’s democracy and should be handled with utmost diligence, while Hon.

Awalu Gwalabe (Bauchi, PDP) stressed the need for lawmakers to consult elders, constituents and stakeholders on sensitive issues such as state police and independent candidacy.

However, Hon. Bamidele Salam (Osun, PDP) opposed another delay, warning that repeated postponements could send a negative signal to the public.

He reminded colleagues that the committee had spent over two years conducting zonal, state and public hearings.

After a voice vote, the majority opted to defer consideration to next week.

Deputy Speaker Kalu directed the Clerk and secretariat to ensure all members receive copies of the report ahead of next week’s session.

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