The ongoing public hearing on the review of the 1999 constitution, from the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, has begun across the zones. The sitting for the North Central zone is being held in Jos, the Plateau State capital, with most people who made presentations at the sitting agitating for solutions to insecurity, state creation, and electoral reforms.
The two-day stakeholders’ public hearing is meant to receive submissions from stakeholders from the six states that make up the North Central geopolitical zone, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, represented by Sen. Oyelola Ashiru, representing Kwara South, pledged that the constitution review committee would address all concerns of citizens.Sen. Ashiru assured that every voice would be heard, saying electoral and judicial reforms, promotion of human rights, and devolution of powers would be looked into.
While declaring the event open, the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, appealed to the Senate committee reviewing the constitution to ensure that issues of insecurity and agitations for state police are considered a priority.
Governor Mutfwang revealed that Nigeria is the only country globally that still operates a centralized police force; therefore, the review constitution should consider the establishment of state police. Mutfwang called for reforms in the electoral and judicial systems and urged the constitution review committee to avoid tribal issues.
Representatives from the six state governments covering the North Central geopolitical zone presented their views for onwards amendment in the constitution. Most of the submissions presented by representatives from states and civil societies agitated for the creation of more states in the North Central region.
Senators from Benue State are present at the public hearing, including Sen. Abah Moro of Benue South, who is also the Senate Majority Leader; Sen. Titus Tertenge Zam, Benue North West and Chairman, Senate Committee on North Central Development Commission; and Sen. Emmanuel Udendi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Financial Crimes, are all participating in the public hearing on the review of the 1999 constitution.
