Lawmakers Set To Engage Parties In High-Stakes Constitution Review Meeting

On Monday, October 6, 2025, the House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee will hold a pivotal meeting with leaders of all registered political parties as part of its ongoing drive to amend the 1999 Constitution.

The committee, chaired by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, has identified several critical areas for amendment, including the creation of state police, local government autonomy, devolution of powers, judicial and electoral reforms, and the introduction of special seats for women in the legislature.

In recent weeks, the panel has carried out nationwide consultations across all six geopolitical zones, engaging stakeholders and collating inputs. A draft of the proposed amendments is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly in December for debate and possible adoption.

House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, said in a statement on Sunday that the upcoming session with political parties will cover “priority areas such as judicial and electoral reforms, special seats for women, independent candidacy, local government reforms, state policing, human rights, and justice.”

He stressed that the engagement would give political parties the opportunity to “share perspectives, make inputs, and contribute meaningfully to shaping constitutional reforms.”

Ahead of the meeting, Kalu underscored the importance of party involvement, noting: “Political parties remain the engine room of our democracy, and their active participation is vital to achieving constitutional amendments that are inclusive, credible, and reflective of Nigerians’ collective aspirations.”

The House also confirmed that a compendium of bills under review has been prepared to guide discussions during the engagement.