The House of Representatives has addressed the confusion surrounding the widely reported “draft bill” advocating for a return to a regional system of government in Nigeria, clarifying that such a proposal is not currently under consideration.
House Spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., outlined the three main pathways for proposing constitutional amendments within the House: constitutional amendment bills proposed by Honourable members, memoranda submitted by individual citizens and groups to the Constitution Review Committee (which should be sponsored as a bill by a member), and executive bills from the executive arm of government.
Rep. Rotimi specifically addressed a memo authored by Citizen Dr. Akin Fapohunda, noting that it has neither been listed as a bill by any member nor submitted as a memorandum to the House Committee on Constitution Review.
“In response to recent inaccurate media reports, the House wishes to clarify that it has neither disowned nor endorsed the proposal. The previous statements were merely to inform the public that the proposal is not currently before the House for consideration,” Rotimi stated.
He emphasized the House’s commitment to fostering healthy and progressive debates and the exchange of ideas on national improvement, while adhering to the clearly defined guidelines and limitations of the constitution review process.
“The legislative agenda of the 10th Assembly prioritizes inclusion and engagement. We are dedicated to a constitution review process that ensures all voices are heard,” Rep. Rotimi added.
For more information, individuals and groups are encouraged to contact the House Committee on Constitution Review at info@hccr.gov.ng or visit www.hccr.gov.ng.
Rotimi concluded by urging the media to report accurately and frame public discourse to promote national cohesion, reiterating that the circulated document is not a bill before parliament, but a memo or proposal from a citizen.
