The House of Representatives has again postponed the much-anticipated commencement of debate on the ongoing constitution review, following fresh calls by lawmakers for additional research and wider consultation with their constituents.
The decision was reached during Thursday’s plenary after disagreements emerged over whether the chamber was ready to proceed with deliberations on the proposed constitutional alterations.
While a section of the lawmakers pushed for the debate to begin immediately—arguing that the exercise was time-sensitive—others insisted that many members were yet to receive the full report and required more time to study the document.
Some legislators objected to opening the floor for discussion, stressing that the proposals contained far-reaching amendments that should not be rushed.
They maintained that a thorough understanding of the report was necessary to ensure informed contributions during the debate. Their position swayed the chamber, leading to yet another postponement.
This marks the second time in less than a week that the House has shifted the debate. The session earlier scheduled for December 3 was similarly moved after lawmakers raised concerns about inadequate circulation of the review documents.
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Among the critical issues listed for debate are the creation of new states and local government areas, far-reaching electoral reforms, enhanced inclusion of citizens in governance, national security and state policing, legislative and judicial restructuring, protection of human rights, devolution of powers, fiscal restructuring, and the role of traditional institutions.
Presiding over the plenary, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu stated that the Committee on the Review of the Constitution had fulfilled its commitment by preparing the report within the first week of December.
He therefore directed the Clerk of the House to ensure that every member receives a copy of the proposed amendments ahead of the next sitting.
Kalu stressed that the chamber would not entertain further complaints once a new date is set for the debate.
He urged lawmakers to use the extension to deepen their consultations and complete all necessary research.
The leadership of the House is expected to announce a fresh date for the commencement of deliberations in the coming days.
NAN
