The President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio said the review of the 1999 Constitution embarked upon by the 10th National Assembly will guarantee the evolution of a more just, united and forward looking federation.
Senator Akpabio made the remarks during the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
He said the on-going public hearing is not merely a formality, but a democratic rite and a solemn moment in which the people, not politicians alone, speak into the soul of the nation.
“Today’s event is not merely a formality. It is a democratic rite—a solemn moment in which the people, not politicians alone, speak into the soul of the nation. It is an affirmation that in a democracy, every voice counts.
“Let us not forget that democracy is a work in progress. No constitution is eternal in its original form, and no democracy is perfect—because man himself is not perfect.
“But it is in our collective pursuit of perfection—that more perfect union—that the true beauty of democracy lies.
“Therefore, the review of our Constitution is not a sign of weakness but of strength. It is not a complaint against the past, but a commitment to the future.
“We amend not to abandon but to realign—to adapt our national charter to the changing realities, dreams and demands of the good people of Nigeria”.
“Every Nigerian is a stakeholder in Nigeria’s democracy. This public hearing is a testament to the Senate’s unwavering belief that truth emerges not from silence but from dialogue; not from monologue but from the aggregation of honest opinions.
“That is why we are here—not as party men, but as patriots. Not as political actors, but as nation-builders,” he said.
Also speaking, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, said the Constitution review was an important moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey that must lead to a restructuring of the country.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi said the zonal public hearing is not a mere procedural step in legislative activity but truth, and also important moment in the country’s democratic journey.
“This zonal public hearing is not a mere procedural step in legislative activity. It is, in truth, an important moment in our democratic journey” he said.
The exercise held simultaneously in five geopolitical zones across the country except in the North West, which was postponed till later date.
The review is aimed at gathering Nigerians’ input on the proposed constitutional amendment in the country’s law.
It will examine critical national issues, including local government autonomy, electoral and judicial reforms, state creation, state police and inclusive governance among others.