Constitution review must reflect people’s aspirations – Barau Jibrin

The Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has said the ongoing efforts to amend the 1999 Constitution must reflect the genuine aspirations of Nigerians across all sectors of society.

Speaking at the opening of the North West Zonal Public Hearing held in Kano on Saturday, Senator Barau emphasised that constitutional amendments must go beyond routine legislative exercises and instead embody the real needs and expectations of the people.

“This process is not just about altering the law. It’s about responding to the voices of Nigerians who want a Constitution that delivers good governance, promotes justice, equity, and enhances our democratic institutions.”

He acknowledged that while the National Assembly has already enacted five rounds of amendments through the 1st to 5th Alteration Acts, many fundamental national issues remain unresolved.”

Barau stressed that Nigerians’ challenges are not only due to constitutional gaps, but also reflect a failure to uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution.

“Many believe that the real issue lies not just in the Constitution itself but in our attitude towards governance and our lack of commitment to its spirit. I agree.”

The Senate Committee, according to Barau, has received hundreds of memoranda from individuals and groups highlighting key issues such as electoral reforms, judicial restructuring, local government autonomy, devolution of powers, security, gender inclusion, and the role of traditional institutions.

“These memos have been carefully studied and translated into bills which we are now presenting for public input. You are here to ventilate your views. You have no bounds.”

Barau assured participants that the Committee was not approaching the exercise with preconceived positions, but with open minds, guided by patriotism, integrity, and a sense of duty.”

“Members of the Committee hold no preconceived opinions to impose upon you but are committed to being guided by legislative practices grounded in the highest ethical standards, integrity, open-mindedness, and patriotism.

“I implore all stakeholders to provide their input in accordance with these standards while maintaining the utmost decorum and responsibility,” he said.

He further urged citizens to see their participation as a vital civic duty and a contribution to the advancement of our democracy and national unity.”

‘We encourage you to share your insights and contributions at this hearing with an open mind. The Committee is committed to considering all viewpoints and perspectives, particularly those of individuals who may be unable to travel to Abuja to express their opinions. We invite you to articulate your thoughts and engage in the crucial reform process aimed at strengthening our democratic structures, institutions and fostering unity, as well as improving good governance. So, you are here to ventilate your views. You have no bounds.” He added.

The hearing in Kano had initially been scheduled for earlier in the month but was postponed out of respect for the passing of two prominent Nigerians business icon Alhaji Aminu Dantata and former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Some pictures from the event.