Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The Northwest Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, organized by the House of Representatives, was held on Saturday at the Northwest Center B in Sokoto.
The session drew robust participation from stakeholders across Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara States.
The committee, chaired by Hon. Sada Soli Jibia and comprising members of the House of Representatives from various constituencies in the Northwest, received a wide range of submissions from individuals, civil society groups, traditional institutions, and state government representatives.
Among the key issues raised were demands for the creation of new states, including Gobir from Sokoto, and Kainji from parts of Kebbi and Niger States, and the establishment of additional local government areas.
These proposals were driven by the need to address population growth, improve grassroots governance, and ensure fairer distribution of resources.
Another major point of discussion was the constitutional recognition of traditional rulers. The Deputy Chairman of the Traditional Rulers’ Council and other speakers emphasized the need to grant traditional institutions a formal role in governance.
They highlighted their longstanding contributions to peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and local leadership, arguing that their inclusion in the constitution would enhance national unity and development.
Participants also advocated for the renaming of Sokoto North and Sokoto South Local Government Areas. Proponents argued that the current names fail to reflect the historical and cultural identities of the communities, and suggested alternatives that better honor their heritage.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Sada Soli reaffirmed the House’s commitment to an inclusive and transparent constitutional review.
“We are here to listen to the people. Every suggestion and submission will be compiled and presented at the national level for consideration.
“The goal is to ensure the Constitution reflects the realities and aspirations of all Nigerians,” he stated.
The constitutional review process continues across other geopolitical zones as the House of Representatives seeks input from citizens nationwide to guide potential amendments to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
